I realize this is a long shot, I am going to ask any way. Can anyone give me ant information about operations

Question

of the 17th Airbourne division during WWII? My mothers first husband was a member of that unit. He was KIA on or about 2 April, 1945. We beleive it was during the taking of the bridge at Remagen or action in th Ruhr valley. She has never learned much of what happened. She is 83 years old now and would like to find out as much as she can before she passes on. His name was PFC Raymond Biddle. It would be great to hear from someone who served in that unit, even better some one who knew him. I know this is a long shot, but I'm trying.

I wish thank everyone for their input for my question. I have been trying for 5 years to find information on this subject. I have received much useful information. I am very grateful for all of tour help.

Answer 1

Unless there was another one with the same name, he was probably in the 513th Parachute Infantry Regiment.

http://www.ww2-airborne.us/units/513/513_honor.html

Answer 2

Here's a small exerpt...the link has the full story.
Operation Varsity, the Allied airborne assault over the Rhine River at Wesel, Germany, on March 24, 1945, is one of those military actions whose value has sometimes been questioned. American forces had already crossed the Rhine at two locations when British Field Marshal Bernard Law Montgomery mounted his assault in the north. Some have speculated that the airborne phase of the assault may have been unnecessary for the success of the overall operation. Montgomery has been accused of using the airborne troops to "put on a good show" and to further his own reputation.

http://www.historynet.com/magazines/world_war_2/3029416.html

Answer 3

You can either look up records on Ancestry.com ; or write to the branch of the military he was in . Your mother may have to write the letter as a next of kin-or you can probably say you are writing on her behalf . There is a website on-line that you can fill out and submit the forms . At one time Kim Komando had it listed on her website . Try her archives if you can't find it .

Answer 4

I don't know, but good luck! I know how hard it can be to track down ancestors that have died in war, I helped my mom do a family tree. I hope you find something soon.

Answer 5

www.va.gov. There are links there that can help you track down information, or people that may have served with him.

Answer 6

i truly hope she finds out. my gratitude to your grandfather for giving his life for our country. GOD bless you all. and especially grandmother.give her a hug and kiss for blackmule.

Answer 7

This will answer a lot of your questions.
http://www.ww2-airborne.us/18corps/17abn/17_overview.html