answersLogoWhite

0

The Scheldt is a major river in Europe. The Belgian port of Antwerp is on the Scheldt, about 80 miles upriver from where it flows into the sea. After the D-Day landings, the Allies had to have a major port, and as soon as possible, in order to bring in enough supplies to support the drive into Germany. This meant Antwerp, or possibly Rotterdam. Either of those ports were in the British area and would have to be taken by British troops. The British finally did take Antwerp in September 1944, but took another two months to clear the banks of the Scheldt of Germans, so Allied ships could actually reach Antwerp.

User Avatar

Wiki User

15y ago

What else can I help you with?