AIRBORNE FORCES RIDERS
ARNHEM RIDERS
81st Anniversary of the Battle of Arnhem Commemorations
18-21 September 2025
ADMINISTRATIVE INSTRUCTION
The Pegasus Ethos
As British Airborne soldiers we place the mission, and our comrades, before ourselves. Our Bravery is founded upon determination, endurance, and selflessness. We are supremely disciplined and that discipline is primarily self-imposed. We take pride in being part of an elite and we understand our responsibility to strive for the highest standards of achievement, turnout and attitude. We wear Pegasus with humility, recognising our obligation never to demean or diminish the value of others. We are a Compassionate friend, but a ferocious enemy. In battle, in barracks, and at home, we always do the right thing.
Arnhem Riders
SITUATION
The Airborne Forces Riders have been attending the annual Arnhem commemorations as a formed group since 2014. In recognition that the battle of Arnhem was a classic all-arms battle, for the purpose of an act of recognition and remembrance, the group is re-named the Arnhem Riders during this annual event. This allows non-Airborne Riders to join the group in our act of Remembrance, on the basis that they are invited by an Airborne Forces Rider and agree to ride and behave according to the high standards on which our collective reputation is based.
Subsequently, the annual pilgrimage has grown since 2014, and in this 81st anniversary year we expect the total UK group size to be around 40 bikes, some of whom will bring pillions, not counting the addition of Riders from Holland and Europe making the full group size somewhere in the region of 50 bikes during some serials. We will ride alongside our friends from the Dutch
Airborne ‘Red Beret Riders’.
Since 2014 the role of the ‘Arnhem Riders’ has developed and we are honoured to have one specific task which is to make a ‘Ride of Respect’ on the Friday of the commemorative week to outlying grave sites associated with the battle, some of which are almost 120 Km from Arnhem. The purpose of this ride is to formally pay our respects to the fallen who rest there and to give thanks to the Dutch people who tend the graves, each one being immaculately cared for. These rides are led by our Dutch friends and spaces on these are limited to 15 bikes in each group and much sought after.
Other Riders will form ad-hoc groups to visit other locations for the same purpose and these will be known as the ‘Rides of Remembrance’. The ‘Remembrance’ groups will make their own plans and itinerary, but each usually make an act of Remembrance at a suitable location en-route, as well as riding out to see something of historic interest.
The Arnhem Riders also have other roles which have become regular features of the annual commemoration, such as paying our respects at the Engineer memorial, and the final act of Remembrance at Oosterbeek Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery on Sunday morning. There will be restricted parking at many locations therefore groupings will be allocated to ease the traffic problem and parking, or for access to specific serials. The co-operation of every Rider is expected and appreciated.
In this 81st year of commemoration, there are other events taking place which we will try to include in the programme, if the organisational logistics and security plan allows. Please note that no-one is under any pressure to attend any or all of these events, however in order to get the most out of the visit it is recommended that Riders try to attend at least one significant event per day. Those that do attend the events are reminded that they represent the Arnhem Riders, and that only the highest standards of riding, dress and behaviour are acceptable.
ARNHEM RIDERS MISSION
To demonstrate that the men of UK 1st Airborne Division and the Polish Parachute Brigade are not forgotten, and to pay respects to them and the people of Arnhem.
EXECUTION
The desired end state is for all Arnhem Riders to have a safe and enjoyable visit to Arnhem, demonstrating respect for the fallen and gratitude to the Dutch people for their sacrifices, and to return home safely.
PROPOSED OUTLINE PLAN BY DAY AND DATE (No plan survives H-Hour)
This instruction is a guide only and all Riders should expect last minute changes that are outside of the control of the Airborne Riders as a group. However, we will endeavour to keep all informed. Please react to changes swiftly, with dignity, and without complaint, and employ the good humour expected of British soldiers and veterans.
Wednesday 17th September 2025
Arrival of Advance Party. Conduct preliminary confirmatory recce of locations. Settle into accommodation.
Thursday 18th September 2025
Arrival of the main body from various ports and in various groupings. Settle into accommodation at EuroParc Hooge Veluwe or elsewhere. Continuation of confirmatory recce’s.
0930 – 1300 Ride of Remembrance to Schoonhoven – Grave of Pte Ash
1600 hrs — PRA — AFR Committee Meeting — Bar area of EuroParc
1900 hrs – Meet and Greet at patio / bar area – EuroParc Hooge Veluwe
1930 hrs – Formal welcome and a short briefing on the plan for the weekend. This is bothe newcomers and experiences Arnhem Riders, as the plans have shifted slightly and this will keep you informed. This ‘sets the scene’ of our involvement in this important event.
This is also where groups for the formal ‘Ride of Respect’ or the ad-hoc ‘Rides of Remembrance’ will be confirmed.
Friday 19 September 2024
RIDE OF RESPECT (3 Groups of up to 15 Riders)
| Leaders: | |
| Group 1 | Paul Moore (To be issued 10 crosses) |
| Group 2 | Al Pearson (To be issued 30 crosses) |
| Group 3 | David Lang (To be issued 42 crosses) |
Riders attending the ‘Ride of Respect’ to the outlying gravesites are limited to three groups of 15 riders (not including Dutch guides) consisting of a mix of Airborne and Arnhem Riders. As always, the priority will be given to those who have not been on one of these rides before with the exception of the Airborne Riders who act as mentors.
Experienced Airborne Riders are included in each group so that the accepted format of how we behave at the gravesites is communicated to the newcomers, thus carrying on the tradition. These also act as mentors and group leaders — but NOT guides. Please leave the navigation to our Dutch guides.
It is the intention for the ‘Respect’ groups to move from the campsite under the group leader as their own organised grouping to meet their Dutch guides at the RV (Hotel Restaurant Paviljoen, Grebbeweg 103-105, 3911AV, Rhenen). They will then be in the hands of the Dutch guides for the rest of the day.
The ride to the gravesites is exciting and challenging, some of which is along the dykes which run along the Rhine. These roads are mainly flat with sweeping curves and good visibility over the river. Be wary of the many cyclists on these roads and don’t take your eye off the road for too long. Some of the dykes are 15m high!
The gravesites are located in the villages along the Rhine and some of the parking or turning areas are quite small and sometimes the surface is gravel. The guides will lead you to the graves and sometimes tell the story of the men you find there. The graves are looked after by Dutch families and they may be there to meet you. You will note that the graves are very well tended. Please acknowledge this.
On some of the rides, short ferry crossings are made and there is adequate time to stop for a break where it is the accepted practice for the group to buy the guides their coffee and lunch if possible.
| Timings: | |
| 0845 Hrs | Form up at EuroParc Hooge Veluwe Car Park. |
| 0900 Hrs | Ride of Respect Group 1 – Depart (Leader — Paul Moore) |
| 0910 Hrs | Ride of Respect Group 2 — Depart EuroParc (Leader— Al Pearson) |
| 0920 Hrs | Ride of Respect Group 3 — Depart EuroParc (Leader — David Lang) |
| 0945 Hrs | All in place at RV. Meet and greet Dutch guides for coffee.
Hotel Restaurant Paviljoen, Grebbeweg 103-105, 3911AV, Rhenen. |
| 1030 Hrs | Ride of Respect Group 1 – Depart |
| 1035 Hrs | Ride of Respect Group 2 — Depart |
| 1040 Hrs | Ride of Respect Group 3 – Depart |
Parking at Ride RV
It is important that groups do not get mixed up when parking at the RV. Group leaders are requested to ensure that their group park close together, and that they are able to identify front and rear markers. Please leave enough space for other traffic to pass freely.
Riders will be given a short explanation of the devotion by the Dutch people afforded these graves, by the AFR President. A 5 minute warning of group departure and a verbal warning — ie. “Respect Group 1—5 Minutes”. Please be ready to ride at the appropriate time.
Action at Grave Sites
The specific action at each grave site is at the discretion of the Arnhem Riders group Leader / mentor, however, a suggested format is given below for guidance.
The Dutch guides generously provide flowers for each grave. AFR will provide crosses. It is intended to keep the routine at each location as similar as possible so that there is sufficient time to meet the local people and demonstrate Respect and Remembrance. It is also important that at each gravesite, everyone within the group has the opportunity to lay remembrance crosses and flowers, or to say the Collect if they wish to do so. Playing the ‘Last Post’ and ‘Reveille’ on a portable device is acceptable.
A suggested format on arrival at a gravesite is:
Park up. Secure Bikes & helmets. Beret On.
Meet local people if attending. Move to gravesite, pause for reflection. Line up in front of grave(s).
We are gathered here to pay our respects to our brothers in arms who lost their lives during the battle of Arnhem.
At a given signal Remembrance crosses and flowers are laid. The site lead says;
We remember:
The cross layer reads the rank, name, unit and age from each headstone from left to right.
The Exhortation is the read by the site lead:
They shall not grow old as we that are left grow old,
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn,
At the going down of the sun, and in the morning,
We Will Remember Them.
All Repeat: We Will remember Them
Where available, the Last Post is played at this point. Officers and site leads salute on behalf of attendees. All others stand at attention.
After a period of silence either the last post is played or the salute is dropped on initiation by the site lead.
The epitaph to the fallen of Kohima is read by the site lead:
When you go home, tell them of us and say,
For your tomorrow, we gave our today.
‘Thank You Ladies Gentlemen’ . No falling out. Thank local people and guides for their support and dedication in keeping the graves. Mount up. Depart to next location.
RIDE OF REMEMBRANCE (3 Groups)
Subject to numbers and a desire to undertake, there will be a series of rides of remembrance. ‘Remembrance’ Groups will leave direct from the campsite and will be publicised at the Meet and Greet.
Those not in the three ‘Ride of Respect’ groups will be given the opportunity to go out on an organised ‘Ride of Remembrance’ to one or more locations which are not far away. The Riders attending these ‘Remembrance’ ride-outs may be those who cannot get on the sought-after places on the ‘Respect’ rides, or the more seasoned’ Arnhem Riders who want to see something different this year. These groups are entirely autonomous in that they are encouraged to make their own plans and itinerary.
Anyone who does not put their name on a ride list or does not want to go on an organised ride is free to do their own thing, but please do not ‘latch on’ to a ride you are not on a list for previously without the permission of the group leader. This is to keep groups to a safe and acceptable size.
Other activities on the Friday are:
11.00 – 17.00 hrs: 11th edition Renkum Airborne – WWII Market /Para drop by Pathfinder Group Europe. Telefoonweg, Renkum. Till Saturday 20/9 16.00 hrs. Information:monique@renkumleeft.nl – Tel. +316-12650989
14.00-17.00 hrs: 18th Conference Bridge to the Future. Theme: ‘Peace: who dares?’ Location: Parkzaal Musis Sacrum, Velperbinnensingel 15 in Arnhem Information and booking: www.bridgetothefuture.nl
18.40-19.00 hrs: March on the John Frost bridge, Arnhem by Massed Pipes and Drums RBL TN. Info: www.arnhem.nl
20.30 – 22.00 hrs: Public event Bridge to Liberation Experience along quay river Rhine and John Frost Bridge. Info: www.bridgetoliberation.nl
Saturday 20 September 2024
Meet with Red Beret Riders and ride to Ginkel Heath DZ
| 0830 Hrs | Form up at FUP TBD |
| 0840 Hours | Depart FUP to RV with Red Beret Riders at Arnhemse Heide. Entrance to Training area ‘Arnhemse Heide Koningsweg 31A, Arnhem. Off n804 Hoednderloseweg.
Briefing and photograph |
| 0900 Hrs | Depart for Ginkel Heath DZ — expect loose surface parking (bring puck).
Same location as last year |
| 0930– 1330 Hrs | View programme as published on handout.
Stay, view partake and leave under own steam |
| 1330 Hrs | Normally a viewing opportunity at the Schoonard of veteran vehicles on the ‘Race to the Bridge’ |
| 1600 Hrs | Depart to Driel for Engineer Memorial Service – Drielse Rijndijk.
Due to amount of traffic lights through town, arttendees are advised to make own way in small groups |
| 1700 Hrs | Engineer Memorial service. AFR to lay wreath. Important Note:
There is to be no engine start or bike movement whilst the service is taking place. Post Service Action: AFR are to help the organisers by providing assistance for the elderly during the service, and to remove and stack the chairs by the side of the road once the VIP dignitaries and guests have departed. |
Sunday 21 September 2024
The Riders will depart FUP near EuroParc/Oostappen camping in one large group making an approach to the Oosterbeek cemetery from the north. The pace will be slow and dignified. No revving engines please.
There is only parking available for the first 40 bikes at the civilian cemetery beyond the Air
Dispatch memorial. This will be named Group FROST.
Please note that the Police and / or civilian marshalls have been instructed by Stadt Arnhem to count the bikes in and they will make a cut off at 40 bikes. If you are not in the first 40 do NOT try to cut in.
All remaining bikes (named Group HORSA) must park in the public car park before getting to the cemetery and walk 500m to the cemetery. This is on-grass parking. A side-stand ‘puck’ is required. (See Map 4 and 5)
Timings:
| 0845 Hrs | Form Up at FUP TBD in one large group. The first 40 (FROST) and the follow on group (HORSA)mwill be identified and notified by the AFR President. |
| 0900 Hrs | Depart FUP |
| 0915 Hrs | Arrive Oosterbeek War Cemetery no later than 0915 hrs and with minimum noise. Group FROST into the civil car park as directed. |
| 1100 Hrs | Service of Remembrance. |
| 1230 Hrs | Dispersal — minimum noise. |
There is no further formal Arnhem Rider activity after the Service of Remembrance. Some people are staying over for Monday ferries but the majority will head for the ports on Sunday afternoon.
Wreath Laying
A number of wreaths with Airborne Riders centre-piece have been obtained to be laid at suitable locations to demonstrate our remembrance and respect for the fallen. It will be decided on the day who will lay wreaths.
Security
In 2018, an attempt at an attack on the Arnhem commemorations by extremists was successfully thwarted by the Dutch security services and police. All Riders are to be mindful of this and to be watchful at all times. Report anything of suspicion to the Dutch police immediately.
Do NOT argue with Police or security staff if you are late at a serial and they do not allow you access.
Routes and Locations
All Arnhem Riders are responsible for their own travel arrangements to Arnhem. It makes sense to travel in a group of bikes to the same location therefore it is suggested that Riders form themselves into groups travelling from the various ferry ports and post this on the Arnhem Riders Facebook page. A list of key locations is below.
Riding Discipline
Ride within the posted speed limit and the road conditions at all times. Riding in staggered file as set by the front Rider with a one second gap between bikes helps to ensure bikes stay together and demonstrates road discipline to other road users. Stay close! Routes have been calculated at standard riding speed limits plus a little extra time built in for safety so there is no need to speed.
Escort Riders are respectfully reminded that it is an offence to stop traffic in the Netherlands unless there is a clear and present hazard or danger.
Action on getting lost / separated
Ride / Group leaders are responsible for briefing their group on the format for the ride. It is suggested that the ‘signpost’ or ‘drop off’ method is used to prevent anyone getting left behind. If any Rider is to get lost or separated from the main body they are to proceed to the location of the next serial, or base location under their own initiative. It is suggested that all carry a hard copy of the itinerary and locations for this purpose.
Action on Breakdown
All Riders are advised to have European breakdown cover. In the event of a breakdown which cannot be resolved at the roadside the Rider should call for assistance, gain a repair or recovery as required and attempt to re-join the group at an agreed RV if possible.
Action on Bad Weather
In the case of extreme weather such that the driving conditions are deemed to be unduly dangerous, Riders should attempt to take cover and wait for it to pass. This should take priority over all other considerations. Safety First – every time.
Action on RTA
No Rider injury /little or no damage to bike: The rider will be left behind to deal with the situation while the remainder carry on to the next objective. A Rider may also stay behind to accompany the downed Rider and they may attempt to catch up at an agreed RV.
Injured Rider: The injured Rider will be given immediate first aid at the scene until handed over to the Emergency Services. If the downed Rider and his machine are unable to carry on with the ride the remainder will continue to the next objective. A Rider may elect to stay behind to accompany the downed Rider and / or arrange recovery of his bike.
Fatal RTA: In the event of a fatality the remainder of the Ride for that day will be cancelled. Riders are expected to co-operate fully with the Police and Emergency services at all times until such time as the incident is dealt with. On no account is any Rider to post anything on social media or to contact family of the downed Rider. This action is to be left to the Police. Normal activities will continue as far as possible the following day.
Action On Media Interest
The level of media interest is unknown at this time however it should be expected.
On no account are media to be allowed to delay the Ride of Respect or cause Riders to be late at any serial. Treat the press with courtesy and respect, but be firm in your commitment to completing the task to time. If interviewed by the press, speak openly and honestly, and explain that the reason we ride as Veterans is to demonstrate Remembrance and Respect to the fallen, and to demonstrate our gratitude to the people of Arnhem. Don’t swear !!
Logistics
All Arnhem Riders are responsible for their own travel arrangements, accommodation and documentation. Following two years without an open bar or restaurant facilities, Riders preferred accommodation has moved to EuroParc Hooge Veluwe. However some have opted to stay at the previous hub of Oostappen Camping. Both these sites are on the outskirts of Arnhem and we have developed a good working relationship with the staff there. We may wish to return there in the future or move to another location. Therefore, all Riders are kindly requested to ensure that their cabins are left in good order when they leave, so that the staff there will be happy to see us in the future.
Euro Parc is located at:
EuroParc Hooge Veluwe, Koningsweg 14,
6816 TC Arnhem
The Netherlands
Tel: +31 (0) 88 055 15 96
Riders who are accommodated elsewhere are responsible for getting themselves to the RV for each event.
Bike Preparation
All Riders are to ensure that their individual bikes are fully roadworthy and maintained. They are to be fully insured, taxed and MOT’d and have European breakdown cover. Copies of these documents should be carried on the ride at all times. AGB/ UK sticker is required on bikes. It is also worth bringing a ‘puck’ for your side stand in case we have to park on grass at any time.
International Driving Permit
Currently these are NOT required for driving / riding within the EU.
https://www.gov.uk/d riving-abroad/international-driving-permit
Dress
Riders are to wear suitable, safe riding clothing throughout the ride with Airborne Riders insignia on a ‘cut’ on top if appropriate. Airborne Riders hoodies may be worn under a protective jacket. Berets may be worn on dismounting at grave locations or other events at the Rider discretion.
Helmets are to be worn when riding at all times.
Political Statements
There are to be no political statements made during the Arnhem Commemorations. Therefore no ‘Soldier F’ or ‘McLaughlin’ flags or tee shirts are to be flown, worn or displayed by any Arnhem Rider at any time during the Arnhem 2025 Commemoration.
Refuel
Riders are to plan to refuel at the end of each day. Intermediate refuels will be on an ‘as required’ basis. There is no time for refuelling en-route to a serial. There is a Shell garage 4 Km from EuroParc and a self-serve/card 1km from the campsite.
Rations
The restaurant at EuroParc Hooge Veluwe will be open and offers a good menu. The latest information is that the restaurant at Oostappen will not be open while we are there. There are cooking facilities within the accommodation cabins. Alternatively, Arnhem and Oosterbeek are full of decent places to eat, as well as supermarkets and shops. Riders are to ensure they remain hydrated at all times and are strongly advised to a carry a bottle of water with them on all rides.
Communications
Individual Mobile Numbers are as follows:
| David Lang | Tel: +44 (O) 7597674327 |
| Paul Moore | Tel: +44 (0) 7931446344 |
Photographs & Facebook Upload
Photographs are encouraged as much as possible so long as demonstrating respect and decency allows. It would be helpful if all Riders publish their pictures on the Arnhem Riders 2025 Facebook page on a regular basis throughout the event so that all can share. This promotes what we are doing, and raises awareness and keeps interested parties informed of our progress.
Summary
This admin instruction is in no way meant to be the ‘bible’ on how the Arnhem Riders participation in the 2025 commemorations will be undertaken, nor is it an exhaustive list of events and locations. Its purpose is as a guide only and should be treated as such.
The plan is likely to change in the run-up to the event as the security situation and overall plan develops, therefore amendments will be issued when appropriate. It is each Riders responsibility to check for amendments on the Arnhem Riders Facebook page or by briefing each evening.
This will be the first visit to Arnhem for some of the Riders so it is hoped that this instruction will give them some flavour of how we conduct ourselves at Arnhem, when and where we meet our Dutch hosts, and pay our respects to the fallen and the people of Arnhem.
I call on all Arnhem Riders to display the highest standards of safety in riding, and exercise strict discipline throughout your visit, being ever mindful of the security situation and that we are guests of the people of Arnhem.
Be gracious to our Dutch hosts and meet Riders from other Nations as equals. Most importantly, enjoy your participation in the 81st Anniversary Commemorations of the Battle of Arnhem as an Arnhem Rider.
David Lang
President, Airborne Forces Riders
Distribution:
All – Airborne Riders / Arnhem Riders
Paul Moore – Immediate Past President
Fred – Red Beret Riders
Frans Amerlaan — Market Garden Foundation
Frans Steenhuis — Rhine Riders Jaap van Genderen — Rhine Riders
List of Attachments:
- Arnhem 2025 — List of key locations
- Arnhem 2025 – Websites of Interest to Arnhem Riders
Arnhem 2025 – List of Key Locations
| Location Name | Address | GPS Co-ordinates | Remarks |
| EuroParc Hooge Veluwe,
|
Koningsweg 14, 6816 TC Arnhem | 52 0 03 067″ 50 86′ 528″ E | Tel +31(0) 88 055 15 96 |
| Oostappen Camping | Kemperbergerweg 771
6816 RW Arnhem The Netherlands |
52 0 01 27″ 50 51′ 30″ E | Tel: +31 (0) 493 326 977 |
| Hartenstein
Airborne Museum |
Utrechtseweg 232
6862 AZ Oosterbeek Netherlands |
51 0 59 15″ 50 57″ E | Tel: +31 26 333 77 10 |
| Schoonard Cafe | Pietersbergseweg 4
6862 BV Oosterbeek Netherlands |
51 0 59′ 16″ N, 5 0 50′ 16″ E | Tel: +31 (0)263333729 |
| Ginkel Heath DZ
Café Juffrouw Tok |
Verlengde Arnhemseweg 101
6718 SM Ede Netherlands |
510 02′ 14″ N, 50 44′ 06″ E | Tell +31318616900 |
| Renkum DZ | None | 51 0 59′ 58″ N, 50 45′ 09″ E | None |
| John Frost Bridge | None | 51 0 58 29 N, 50 54 | None |
| Engineer Memorial
(Driel) |
Drielse Rijndijk / Aachterstraat
Driel |
510 58′ 14″ N, 5 0 50′ 08″ E | None |
| Polish Memorial Driel town square | Potenptein 2
6665 CN Driel Netherlands |
510 57 5 0 48’49” E | None |
| Grebbeburg (NL)
Military Cemetery |
Grebbeberg
Grebbeweg 3911 AV Rhenen Netherlands |
51 0 57′ 18″ N, 50 35′ 54″ E | None |
| Oosterbeek CWG
Military Cemetery |
Van Limburg Stirumweg
6861 Oosterbeek Netherlands |
51 0 59′ 35″ N, 50 50′ 53″ E | None |
| Hotel Van der Valk RB Riders RV | Amsterdamseweg 505
6816 VK Arnhem Netherlands |
52 0 00′ 52″ N, 50 49′ 09″ E | +31 26 482 11 oo |
| Overloon War Museum | Museum Park 1
5825AM Overloon |
510 34′ 12″ N, 50 57′ 29″ E | -re’: +31478 641250 |
| National Liberation Museum 1944-45 | Wylerbaan 4,
6561 KR Groesbeek, Netherlands |
510 47′ 05″ N, 50 | None |
| Arnhem War
Museum (Oorlogsmuseum Arnhem) |
Kemperbergerweg 780,
6816 RX Arnhem, The Netherlands |
52 0 01′ 31″ N, 50 52′ 18 E | Located very near the Oostappen campsite |
| Shell Fuel Garage | Bakenbergseweg 240
6814 MT Arnhem Netherlands |
Also general store | |
| Argos Fuel Garage | Kemperbergerweg 727
6816 RV Arnhem Netherlands |
Self Serve / Card only | |
| Total Fuel Arnhem | Amsterdamseweg 467A
6816 VK Arnhem Netherlands |
Also general store |
Arnhem 2025 – Websites of Interest to Arnhem Riders
SAH/ACF Commemorations Program 2025
Arnhem 81st Commemorations 2025 • The Parachute Regimental Association