Almost 80 years on the battle for the Arnhem Rhine crossing remains controversial. Opinion on its justification and success differs widely. This superbly researched book, written by two acknowledged experts, takes a wide-ranging examination of Operation MARKET GARDEN from the strategic, operational and tactical level. The role of the Allied commanders involved is scrutinised with surprising results. For example, US General Brereton's pivotal role has seldom been mentioned, yet he is revealed as responsible for choosing landing and drop zones. The record of airborne forces, both German and Allied, prior to September 1944 raises questions and the doubt that many senior commanders, including Eisenhower, had as to their effectiveness is highlighted. The parts played by VIII and XII Corps of Second Army and General Dempsey, its Commander are scrutinised, as are the actions of local commanders and troops on the ground. Both those with a deep interest in military history and the layman will find much to inform and satisfy them in this valuable and at times provocative account.

The author of over thirty published books, Richard Doherty has presented and advised on numerous programmes for historical series for BBC TV and BBC Radio Ulster. As Chairman of the Irish Regiments Historical Society, he leads battlefield studies, writes for newspapers and journals and is a trustee of three military museums. Northern Ireland President of St John Ambulance, he is also Librarian of the Commandery of Ards in the Order of St John. In 2020 he was the High Sheriff of Londonderry County Borough. Taking early retirement in1998, David Truesdale has produced 18 books on military history, concentrating on airborne operations of the Second World War and the role of the Irish soldier in the wars of the Victorian period. His first book, written in conjunction with Richard Doherty, Irish Winner of the Victoria Cross, was published in 2000\. In 2016, Steel Wall At Arnhem was published, a definitive study concerning the role of 4 Parachute Brigade in that action.