‘When in doubt, lash out’: The 82nd Airborne’s crossing of the Waal River, 75 years later

It was essential, Gavin determined, for a detachment to move approximately 1 mile down the Waal River, cross in boats, and attack the other end of the bridge in a maneuver designed to surprise the enemy.

Maj. Julian Cook’s 3rd Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment were tasked with the river crossing.

While Cook may have initially anticipated having the element of surprise on his side, he would soon learn that the 504th’s attack would more closely resemble somewhat of a suicide mission.

Time was of the essence, and mission success could not afford the luxury of waiting for the cover of nightfall.

Instead, Cook’s men were ordered to row across the river in broad daylight — in full view of heavy German defenses.

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