The 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, known as the “Red Devils,” was formed in October 1942 as part of the 82nd Airborne Division of the United States Army during World War II. After training in the United States, the regiment sailed to the United Kingdom in December 1943 to prepare for the invasion of Nazi-occupied Europe.
Link with Nottingham
In March 1944 the regiment moved to Wollaton Park in Nottingham, where it was stationed while training for major airborne operations. The park served as a temporary military camp, with troops living in tents and using the surrounding land for drills and preparation. Under the command of Matthew Ridgway, the 82nd Airborne Division trained intensively in the area for the upcoming invasion of Europe.
Members of the 82nd Airborne Division, 508th Regiment, check their equipment before taking off from an airfield in Saltby, England, to participate in the invasion of Europe. D-Day
On 6 June 1944, during D-Day and the wider Operation Overlord, the 508th parachuted into Normandy shortly after 2:00 a.m. Their objectives included securing key crossings over the Merderet River and supporting the capture of Sainte-Mère-Église. Like many airborne units, the regiment was widely scattered during the drop but regrouped and fought German forces for several days. Despite heavy casualties—over half the regiment became casualties—their actions helped secure vital positions and disrupt German reinforcements moving toward the beaches.
Operation ‘market Garden’ (the Battle For Arnhem)- 17 – 25 September 1944 17 September 1944: Six American paratroopers of the First Allied Airborne Army receive a final briefing from their commanding officer before emplaning. http://media.iwm.org.uk/iwm/mediaLib//36/media-36850/large.jpgAfter the Normandy campaign, surviving members returned to their base at Wollaton Park in July 1944. From there they prepared for further operations, including Operation Market Garden in September 1944 and later fighting in the Battle of the Bulge.
Today, a memorial in Wollaton Park commemorates the American paratroopers of the 508th who were based there during the war, highlighting the park’s important role in the Allied preparations for the liberation of Europe.
For more information see Wollaton Hall Page. A small display of memorabilia is also available for viewing at the Courtyard Buildings, please ask for directions.
