March 7, 1945 - the miracle of Remagen

Viac o knihe

The events of March 1945 near Remagen captured significant attention from both warring sides. The capture of the Ludendorff railway bridge on March 7th became known as the "Miracle of Remagen" for the Americans, while the German Wehrmacht viewed it as a major failure that hastened the collapse of the western front. This first Rhine crossing by the Western Allied Forces is surrounded by numerous legends and stories, even inspiring a movie that portrays the military coincidence as a heroic act. While the Miracle of Remagen brought several advantages to the victors, the German side faced numerous mishaps and shortcomings. This historical guide, organized into 14 chapters, aims to clarify the events that likely shortened the war in Europe by days or weeks. It features unique photographs, maps, and documents illustrating military activities in the Rhineland during the spring of 1945. Wolfgang Gückelhorn, born in 1947 in the Rhineland, has been dedicated to the subject since 1994. He initiated a military-historical excursion in Remagen in 1995, which he continues to conduct annually, enhancing his knowledge of local history. His extensive archival collection and documentation reflect his solid military expertise, having served in an Armored Battalion and as a reserve officer until 2007.