Operation Varsity Jump
A singular leap across the Rhine as an observer with the 17th Airborne Division.
On March 24, 1945, Lewis Nixon III, serving as an observer with the 17th Airborne Division under Major General Maxwell Taylor's orders, participated in Operation Varsity. This mission marked one of the few instances where a member of the 101st Airborne jumped alongside another division or regiment. The operation involved crossing the river Rhine to support Allied advances into Germany. Nixon was assigned specifically as an observer with Major General William Miley's forces during this massive airborne assault, distinguishing him from his usual duties within the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment.
- Date
- March 24, 1945
- Location
- Crossing of the river Rhine
- Affiliation
- 101st Airborne Division (Observer with 17th Airborne Division)
- Key Figures
- Lewis Nixon III, Major General Maxwell Taylor, Major General William Miley
Lore & Background
Nixon's involvement in Operation Varsity was unique among his comrades. While he spent most of the war with E Company and later the 506th Regimental headquarters, Taylor assigned him to observe the 17th Airborne Division during this specific operation. This assignment made Nixon one of the very few men from the 101st to jump with an external division or regiment. The mission took place on March 24, 1945, placing him directly in the path of intense combat as the airborne forces crossed the Rhine River into Germany. His presence was not that of a standard rifleman but as a designated observer representing the 101st's interests during this critical phase of the war.
In Their Own Story
During Operation Varsity, Nixon's plane suffered a catastrophic direct hit from enemy fire while crossing the river. The impact was severe, leaving only Nixon and three other survivors to exit the aircraft safely. This incident stands as one of the most harrowing moments of his service, contrasting with his earlier claim of never firing a shot in combat despite spending much time on front lines. The survival of Nixon and three others from a plane taking such a direct hit underscored the extreme danger of the Rhine crossing. Despite this near-fatal event, he continued to serve until the war's end, eventually earning one of his three Combat Jump Stars during these operations.
Reader's Guide
Operation Varsity required paratroopers to jump east of the Rhine River into heavy German resistance and intense anti-aircraft fire. For observers like Nixon, the mission involved riding with the 17th Airborne Division rather than their home unit. The operation demanded precise coordination between airborne and ground forces to secure bridgeheads. Pilots faced severe flak, leading to direct hits on transport aircraft, as experienced by Nixon's plane. Survivors had to land in hostile territory, regroup immediately, and establish observation posts or combat positions. The success of the operation relied on holding key positions against counterattacks while ground forces crossed the river, a task complicated by friendly fire risks and scattered landing zones.
Did You Know?
- Nixon was one of the few men in the 101st Airborne to jump with another division or regiment during Operation Varsity.
- He earned three Combat Jump Stars on his Jump Wings as a result of his service, including this operation.
- His plane took a direct hit during the Rhine crossing, leaving only him and three others to survive and exit safely.
- Nixon was assigned by Major General Maxwell Taylor specifically to observe the 17th Airborne Division led by Major General William Miley.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Operation Varsity?
It was the final major Allied airborne assault of World War II in Europe, taking place on March 24, 1945. Easy Company and the rest of the 101st Airborne Division jumped east of the Rhine River to secure bridgeheads for ground troops.
When did Easy Company participate in this jump?
The mission occurred on March 24, 1945, near the end of the war in Europe. This event served as the last combat operation for many members of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment before V-E Day.
Who led the company during the operation?
Major Dick Winters commanded Easy Company throughout the deployment, while Cpl. Lewis Nixon also played a notable role in the aftermath. Their leadership helped navigate the chaos of the drop and subsequent ground fighting against German resistance.
Where did the paratroopers land?
Thousands of troops dropped east of the Rhine River in Germany to support the crossing forces. The landing zone faced heavy fire from both enemy positions and accidental friendly fire from Allied artillery.
Why is this mission considered significant for the show and history?
It marked a pivotal moment where the airborne giants made their final leap into the heart of Germany to end the conflict. For Easy Company, it represented a grueling final test that resulted in successful bridgehead establishment despite heavy casualties.
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