Capture the essence of two pivotal moments in history through this special two-part collection of ten stamps sharing powerful imagery and stories from two of the Second World War’s most significant campaigns; 'D-Day 80 - The Road to Paris' and 'Operation Market Garden'. This collection serves as a poignant reminder of the bravery and sacrifice exhibited during these historic military campaigns.
Released in support of the national commemoration of the D-Day 80 campaign and Operation Market Garden, the collection of 10 stamps has been curated with the support of; Ivor Ramsden MBE, Director of the Manx Aviation and Military Museum, the National Army Museum,
Imperial War Museum and the Airborne Division Museum. Archive material has been brought together within an intricately designed and informative 28 page Prestige Booklet (ACF71), the standout item from this issue.
The first five stamps, 'D-Day 80 - The Road to Paris', depict the ground-breaking Normandy landings of June 1944, advancing through to the liberation of Paris. The first stamp in this collection features footage captured on D-Day by Manxman Norman Clague of the Army Film and Photographic Unit, used for the first time upon a stamp.
The second (bottom) row of five stamps studies Operation Market Garden, the bold Allied military endeavour to hasten the end of the conflict by securing key bridges and establishing a direct route into Germany through the Netherlands.
Throughout both campaigns, a number of Manx soldiers saw battle including Major Robert Henry Cain VC, who became the first and only Manxman to be awarded the Victoria Cross following his bravery during the Battle of Arnhem. Major Cain is pictured alongside Manxmen Flying Officer John Clague and Private Robert Cojeen.
The liberation of Europe during World War II was propelled by pivotal military operations such as D-Day and Operation Market Garden. D-Day, launched on 6th June 1944, saw the Allied forces storm the beaches of Normandy in a massive amphibious assault against Nazi-occupied France. This audacious operation, involving intricate planning and unparalleled coordination, marked a turning point in the war, establishing a crucial foothold on the continent and initiating the liberation of Western Europe.
Operation Market Garden, launched in September 1944, aimed to secure a series of strategic bridges in the Netherlands, allowing Allied forces to advance swiftly into Germany and hasten the end of the war. Despite initial successes, including the capture of several bridges, the operation ultimately fell short of its objectives due to logistical challenges and stiff German resistance.
Both D-Day and Operation Market Garden showcased the Allied forces' determination, bravery, and ingenuity in the face of formidable opposition. These operations demonstrated the Allied commitment to freeing Europe from Nazi tyranny and restoring peace and democracy to the continent.
Discover more of the stories and the heroics behind these daring campaigns through this joint collection of stamps.
