The Rur Triangle: A Crucial Bridgehead
In January 1945, the rivers Meuse and Rur formed the front line between the Allied forces and the German army. There was one notable exception: the sector between Geilenkirchen, in Germany, and Roermond.
Here, on the western bank of the Rur, lay a German-held bridgehead that protruded into Allied territory like a spearhead. This strategic position was known as the Rur Triangle. Its presence posed a significant obstacle to the Allied advance towards the Rhineland and had to be neutralised.
The formidable task of clearing the Rur Triangle was entrusted to the British XII Corps, who were charged with securing this vital region and paving the way for the final push into Germany.
Operation Blackcock: The Allied Attack
The codename for this operation was "Operation Blackcock". The offensive to clear the Rur Triangle was launched between 15 and 27 January 1945. The British XII Corps led the operation, fielding a powerful combination of units:
- 43rd (Wessex) Division
- 52nd (Lowland) Division
- 7th Armoured Division, known as the Desert Rats
These divisions were reinforced by a range of specialised units, including the 6th Guards Tank Brigade, 8th Armoured Brigade, 1st Commando Brigade, and elements of the 79th Armoured Division, known for Hobart's Funnies. Additionally, the 1st Canadian Armoured Personnel Carrier Regiment and various artillery units provided crucial support.
The advance was anything but straightforward. The Allied forces faced harsh winter conditions in a difficult terrain and encountered fierce resistance from German troops, including the infamous paratroopers of the Fallschirmjäger Regiment Hübner.
The Tour: Tracing the Advance
This full-day tour retraces the route taken by the 7th Armoured Division and 1st Commando Brigade as they advanced to clear the Rur Triangle on Dutch soil.
The route takes you through key locations such as Susteren, Sint Joost, and Linne, before arriving at Sint Odiliënberg. It was here, on 27 January 1945, that the troops of the 7th Armoured Division reached the banks of the Rur, marking the successful conclusion of Operation Blackcock.
The British Cemetery in Nederweert
The tour concludes with a visit to the British Cemetery in Nederweert, where those who lost their lives in the intense fighting of the Rur Triangle are honoured. Many of the soldiers who fell during the operation are buried here, serving as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of freedom.
Price:
From € 25,25 per person (based on 20 persons)
Included:
• Certified guide during the entire program
• Special handout with background information
Not included:
• Coach hire
• Catering
• Reservation fee € 16.50 per booking
Details:
• Duration program from 09.00 - 17.00 hrs
• Coach hire and lunch stops available upon request, at an additional cost
• For last-minute bookings (within 7 working days) double administration fees apply
For more information or reservations please contact
LimburgGroepsuitje
E: groepsuitje@hartvanlimburg.nl
T: + 31 (0)475 330289