September 17, 1944 - Membury Airfield
All across England, they prepare to jump. The “Screaming Eagles,” the “All-American” boys, the British “Red Devils,” soon the troop carrier transports will whisk them away for World War II’s largest airborne invasion to date: Operation Market Garden, a surprise jump to secure vital bridges and roadways in Holland.
Among these units is Easy Company, 506th PIR, seen here. On this morning, the company’s veterans give the new replacements a helping hand. Checking harnesses, uttering encouragements, the veterans’ bravado will settle the rookies’ nerves. Someday, when the new guys look back, they’ll understand: it’s just another day in a company of heroes.
