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German General Wilhelm Bittrich & Adjutant
The Backdrop: Arnhem Under Siege
Operation Market Garden, a bold Allied airborne operation in September 1944, aimed to secure key bridges in the Netherlands. However, the ambitious plan faltered, leaving the British 1st Airborne Division isolated and significantly outnumbered at the Arnhem bridge.
Bittrich Enters the Fray:
Leading the German 2nd Panzer Corps, General Bittrich spearheaded the counter-offensive against the British defenders. Recognizing the stalemate at the bridge and the heavy losses his forces were incurring, Bittrich devises a daring strategy.
A White Flag, An Unexpected Proposal:
Accompanied by his trusted aide, Bittrich approaches the British position under a white flag. Instead of launching a full-frontal attack, Bittrich proposes… the surrender of the British!
The British Response: A Spirited Refusal
The ensuing exchange in the film is a darkly comedic turning point. British commanders, Major Harry Carlyle and Lieutenant Colonel John Frost, find themselves in the absurd situation of having to politely decline Bittrich’s offer. Their now-iconic retort – a witty remark about lacking the “facilities” to accommodate so many prisoners – perfectly captures the defiant spirit of the British Airborne in the face of overwhelming odds.
History vs. Hollywood:
While the film portrays a lighthearted exchange, it’s important to note that negotiations likely did occur at the Arnhem Bridge. The exact details, however, remain a matter of historical debate.
German General Willhelm Bittrich & Adjutant
These miniatures are cast in white metal* and shipped without a base.
Material: White Metal
# of parts: 4
Note: The miniatures come unpainted and require assembly.
* NOTE ON SAFETY – THIS IS NOT A TOY AND NOT SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 14. CONTAINS SMALL PARTS THAT MAY BE HARMFUL IF CHEWED OR SWALLOWED.