In September 1944, Allied forces, buoyed by recent successes following D-Day, attempt a rapid advance into German-occupied Europe. Operation Market-Garden is devised as an audacious plan to end the war quickly by capturing key bridges in the Netherlands to allow for a swift advance into Germany. Paratroopers from Britain, the United States, and Poland are to be dropped behind enemy lines to seize these critical points, with a particular focus on the ultimate prize, the bridge at Arnhem. The operation relies on a hurriedly coordinated airborne assault, with ground forces expected to reinforce the paratroopers within a few days.

As the operation unfolds, the Allied troops encounter unexpected resistance and logistical challenges. Miscommunications, intelligence oversights, and the presence of SS Panzer divisions not previously detected by reconnaissance add to the complications. The ground forces tasked with linking up with the airborne units find their progress slowed by destroyed infrastructure and fierce enemy counterattacks. The paratroopers, isolated and fighting for control of the bridges against increasing German pressure, must hold out until reinforcements can reach them, testing the limits of their training and endurance.