A veteran from Frome has written a book to document the story of his father, who took part in a ‘top secret’ mission 100 days after the D-Day landings. The mission, known as Operation Market Garden, was one of the most ambitious Allied operations of World War II.
The book, entitled Arnhem Veteran, tells the story of Tan Hughes’ father, Frank Hughes, a Frome local who played a vital part in this military campaign.
Operation Market Garden is described as an ambitious scheme in which troops aimed to cross the River Rhine, advance deep into northern Germany, and shorten the war. If successful, the plan would have liberated the Netherlands and paved the way for an armoured drive into Germany’s industrial heartland, the Ruhr.
“Arnhem Veteran is a respectful memory and tells the story of all those who laid sacrifice,” said author Tan Hughes. “It is a factual record, a story in many parts comprised of Frank’s personal notes, memoirs and a lengthy newspaper article he wrote for The Sunday Express in 1984.”
The book’s release is timed to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Arnhem, a key conflict within Operation Market Garden.
“Further details from his war years were obtained through research, along with conversations and letters shared over a generation between father and son, during a time when I would emulate my father by also facing conflict in a foreign land,” Tan said.
“This captivating, at times chilling account, is a rare historical document that details the life of one of Frome’s own—a man to be proud of and remember.”
To pre-order a signed copy directly from the author before it goes on general sale on eBay, email tannhauserpublishing@gmail.com.
