The bridge was captured by Lieutenant John S. Thompson during Operation Market Garden. His name was given to the bridge by his widow as a tribute during the commemoration in September 2004.

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December 9, 2025

Hiking

The John S. Thompson Bridge, located near Grave, is a strategic bridge over the Maas River, officially known as the Bridge at Grave. It was named in honor of Lt. Col. John S. Thompson, commander of the 82nd Airborne Regiment, which successfully captured the bridge during Operation Market Garden (September 1944).

The airborne units captured the bridge virtually intact, preserving a vital link in the Allied advance toward Nijmegen and Arnhem. A small monument commemorates this action stands on the north side. The bridge is therefore an important war memorial in the Maas-Grave area.

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4.4

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1. Van Sasse Pumping Station – Ravenstein City Gate loop from Balgoij

23.3km

05:53

40m

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Hard

4.5

(17)

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2. Saint Elisabeth Church – John S. Thompson Bridge loop from Grave

7.89km

02:00

20m

10m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

4.4

(5)

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3. Saint Elisabeth Church – Van Sasse Pumping Station loop from Grave

5.20km

01:19

10m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

Details

Informations

Elevation 60 m

Weather

Thursday 12 February

6°C

0°C

27 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h

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Location: Grave, North Brabant, Netherlands

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John S. Thompson Bridge

1. Van Sasse Pumping Station – Ravenstein City Gate loop from Balgoij

2. Saint Elisabeth Church – John S. Thompson Bridge loop from Grave

3. Saint Elisabeth Church – Van Sasse Pumping Station loop from Grave

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