Operation "Market Garden" commemorations September 2005.

[Adrian Stevenson]

That concludes my photos from Saturday. We went back to the hotel tired but very happy. That night we had a few beers and looked forwards to a lie in bed as it had been all go.

Sunday morning soon came around, not helped by a rather late night


I had arranged as usual to take part in the now annual commemorative march. This year the march set off from the camp site and so the distance was cut down to around 5 miles. This is done in full kit and with weapons. For this year I had decided to carry a Bren gun I had the option of a PIAT but I thought that I would save that until next year

[Adrian Stevenson]

The day was rather warm and sunny and the march set off at a very good pace and in step.


I met a Dutch friend (Tom) of forum member JohnK on the march. The group was split into 3 troops; a Dutch, Polish and British section. I was made an honourary Dutchman


The quick pace was kept up and one short 10 minute stop was made to ensure everyone was OK and had a break and a drink of water. I saw one guy take off his boots Needless to say he had to drop out shortly after we set off again...

Here we are just moving off. Note the little boy taking photos. He was dressed like the lad in "ABTF". He ran alongside of us taking many pictures with all the cameras he had been given.

[lnijherald]

Hi Ade,
Thanks for showing these pictures, I'll definately join you guys next year kitted up.
The picture of the Dakota was taken at Ginkel heath, we had front row seats as most aircraft came straight over our heads!

Here's a couple of more shots taken saturday:

[Adrian Stevenson]

Going up the hill outside the former St. Elizabeth Hospital.

Who said Holland is flat?

[lnijherald]

Classic example of a GP, note the custom adapted ammo pouch.

[lnijherald]

Nice camo pattern helmet:

[lnijherald]

Nice welcome to all the veterans on the road just outside the museum.

[lnijherald]

I was introduced to this gentleman, a VERY shiny-ninth:

[lnijherald]

This will give you an impression of the "buzz" outside Schoonoord hotel.

Hope you enjoy the pictures.
Cheers, Luc

[Adrian Stevenson]

Hi Luc, I can't beleive it was only last weekend. I never even had time to "do" the Hartenstien this year, except for a quick look around the new SAS exhibition.


Please add any more pics you have
Cheers, Ade.

[Adrian Stevenson]

More of the March.

[Adrian Stevenson]

Through the streets getting near the Bridge.

Note the Grey berets of our Polish comrades, as usual they sang their hearts out, and made a noise out of all preportion to the size of their group.

[Adrian Stevenson]

Out again into the bright sunshine

[Adrian Stevenson]

Here I am at the Bridge. Wet through with sweat not bad timing as I think we did the 5 miles in 2 hours, minus the short break?

[Adrian Stevenson]

Looking a bit less serious on this one.

To be applauded by the Vets we met along the route was very humbling. To hear them shout "Well done lads! Keep it up" certainly brings a lump to the throat.