Home > Mary Evans Prints Online > New Images August 2021
Irish Guards Memorial plaque, Joes Bridge
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Irish Guards Memorial plaque, Joes Bridge
This is on a small stone plinth beside the canal. The crossing here is known as the De Groote Barrier and the bridge was taken one week before Operation Market Garden began. The orginal bridge was destroyed by the Belgians in 1940 in order to delay the invading Germans. They replaced it with a heavy trestle structure which in turn later became as it is here. Date: 2000
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23271112
© Holts Battlefield Collection / Mary Evans
2000 Barrier Canal Crossing Groote Guards Plaque Plinth This Week Joes
EDITORS COMMENTS
This poignant photograph captures the Irish Guards Memorial Plaque, located on a small stone plinth beside the De Groote Barrier at Joes Bridge in Belgium. The bridge, which spans the canal, holds significant historical importance as it was the site of a crucial crossing during World War II. One week before the commencement of Operation Market Garden in 1940, the original bridge was destroyed by the Belgians to delay the advancing German forces. A heavy trestle structure was subsequently built to replace it. By the year 2000, the bridge had been restored to its current form, as depicted in this image. The Irish Guards Memorial Plaque pays tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the Irish Guards, who played a vital role in the Battle of Arnhem during Operation Market Garden. The operation, which was intended to secure key bridges in the Netherlands and create a land bridge to the Allied forces in the north, ultimately failed due to a combination of factors, including poor planning and unexpected German resistance. Despite the failure of the mission, the Irish Guards displayed exceptional courage and tenacity in the face of overwhelming odds. Their actions at Joes Bridge, where they held off the German advance for several hours, are a testament to their unwavering commitment to their country and their comrades. The Irish Guards Memorial Plaque serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the soldiers who fought in this pivotal battle and the enduring bond between the Belgian and Irish people. The peaceful scene depicted in the photograph, with the sun casting a warm glow over the canal and the bridge, stands in stark contrast to the chaos and destruction of war, highlighting the importance of remembering and honoring the past.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.