ABSTRACT
The Germans were working to a longer-term plan than the ad hoc one implemented by Battalion Krafft and the forward patrols of 9th SS Panzer on the previous afternoon and evening. Model ordered Bittrich to deploy his two divisions in a direct and simple way. A parachute battalion's task was to reach its objective in as intact a manner as possible and then fight its main battle defending that objective until relieved by ground forces. The task of the Airlanding Brigade battalions was to protect the landing areas until the safe arrival of the second lift. The South Staffords had exactly the same experience and, like the 1st Battalion, had to side-step to the lower road. The battalion was then led skilfully into Arnhem by some Dutch guides, finally coming up to the St Elizabeth Hospital area, but experiencing some fire in Arnhem and suffering at least three men killed.
