Comes with C.O.A.

This original and museum-grade World War II map was published by the War Office in 1944 and was used during the Allied push through Germany and the advance towards the Rhine River. This infantry map is updated with aerial revisions taken from previous Allied aerial reconnaissance missions in the area. This map of the Rhine River is an incredible piece of WWII history and would make an amazing addition to any WWII collection.

Cologne, located in western Germany, was one of the cities that faced significant damage and destruction during World War II. In 1944 and 1945, the city was heavily bombed by the Allied forces, causing widespread devastation and loss of life. The Rhine River, which flowed through the city, also played a critical role in the war and was heavily guarded by the German forces.

The bombing of Cologne took place in several waves, with the first major raid occurring on May 30, 1942. The city was targeted because of its importance as a transportation hub, with its well-developed railway and road networks. The bombing was intense, and more than 4,000 people were killed, with thousands more injured and homeless. Over the next two years, the city was bombed several more times, with the largest raid taking place on May 31, 1944. This raid was one of the largest bombing missions carried out by the Allied forces in the war and resulted in widespread destruction.

The Rhine River was of significant importance during the war, as it was one of the major waterways in western Europe. The German forces heavily guarded the river, as it was a vital transportation route for the movement of troops and supplies. The Allies attempted to capture the river, but their attempts were unsuccessful due to the strength of the German defenses. The river was also used by the German forces to transport equipment and supplies to the front lines.

In late 1944, the Allies launched a major offensive aimed at capturing the Rhine River and the surrounding region. The operation was known as Operation Market Garden and involved a massive airborne assault on the city of Arnhem in the Netherlands. The operation was a failure, and the Allies were unable to capture the Rhine. However, their efforts resulted in the German forces being forced to retreat and withdraw from the region.

The war finally came to an end in 1945, with the Allies capturing the Rhine River and the surrounding region. The city of Cologne was heavily damaged, with much of its historic center being destroyed. The Rhine River was also heavily damaged, with many of its bridges and structures being destroyed during the fighting. The war had a profound impact on the people of Cologne and the Rhine River region, and its effects were felt for many years after the conflict ended.

The events that took place in Cologne and along the Rhine River during World War II were significant and had far-reaching consequences. The bombing of the city caused widespread devastation and loss of life, while the Rhine River was a critical battleground in the war. The events of the war had a profound impact on the people of the region and served as a reminder of the horrors of war and the importance of peace and stability.