Colchester to honour 80th anniversary of Battle of Arnhem

The battle was a significant part of Operation Market Garden: an Allied effort to capture several bridges in the Netherlands in September 1944.

The special service will take place on Tuesday, September 17, at the city's war memorial, commemorating the bravery and sacrifice of the British 1st Airborne Division, who suffered heavy losses in this pivotal moment of the war.

Lieutenant Colonel Ed Rankin, commander of Colchester Garrison, said: "Operation Market Garden was a hugely ambitious, if ultimately unsuccessful, operation.

"The soldiers who fought at Arnhem displayed determination, endurance, and selflessness that set a standard for all those that have followed them.

"It is hugely important that we join with the people of Colchester to honour the bravery and sacrifice of all who took part."

A Dutch nurse giving first aid to a wounded paratrooper (Image: Airborne Assault Museum, Duxford)

The service will begin with a two-minute silence, followed by the reading of the Kohima Epitaph and the laying of wreaths.

Schoolchildren and cadets will place sunflowers, grown by Abberton Rural Training, to mirror the Dutch tradition of children placing flowers on graves at the Oosterbeek War Cemetery in the Netherlands.

The Reverend Gavin Smith CF, Senior Chaplain 16 Air Assault Brigade, and the Mayor’s Chaplain, the Reverend Anthony Bushell will lead prayers.

A bugler from the British Army Band Colchester will play The Last Post and Reveille.

The mayor of Colchester, Lesley Scott-Boutell, said: "The Battle of Arnhem was a defining moment in the Second World War.

"It was a courageous and ambitious endeavour to liberate the Netherlands from Nazi occupation but ultimately ended in tragedy.

"Despite the outcome, the battle stands as a testament to the unwavering courage and determination of the Allied forces.

"They fought valiantly against overwhelming odds, and their sacrifice will never be forgotten."

In addition to the service, the Dutch flag and Pegasus - the emblem of airborne forces - will be flown from Colchester Town Hall from September 17 to 25.

Later in the week, the mayor will attend a commemorative service at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Arnhem Oosterbeek Cemetery in the Netherlands, alongside dignitaries from Renkum, veterans, and soldiers of the 16 Air Assault Brigade.