Lt. Col. Benjamin Vandervoort: WWII Paratrooper & Hero - Explore His Story

23 May, 2025

Could one man's bravery truly shape the course of a battle, or even a war? The extraordinary leadership and unwavering courage of Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin H. Vandervoort during World War II provide a resounding answer: yes.

His name echoes through the annals of military history, a testament to his remarkable actions in some of the most pivotal moments of the conflict. From the harrowing airborne landings in Normandy to the fierce fighting in Holland, Vandervoort's name is synonymous with valor, decisiveness, and the unwavering spirit of a true leader. This piece will delve into the life and legacy of Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin H. Vandervoort, exploring his formative years, his military career, and the indelible mark he left on the world.

Attribute	Details
Full Name	Benjamin Hayes Vandervoort
Birthdate	March 3, 1915
Birthplace	Gasport, New York
Death Date	November 18, 1990
Education	Attended Washington College in Chestertown, Maryland.
Military Branch	United States Army
Rank	Lieutenant Colonel
Unit(s)	2nd Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division
Wars/Conflicts	World War II
Notable Battles/Operations	Normandy (D-Day), Operation Market Garden
Awards and Decorations	Distinguished Service Cross (twice)
Portrayal in Media	Portrayed by John Wayne in "The Longest Day"
Father	Benjamin Franklin Vandervoort (Army Colonel)
Military Career Start	July 1937 (as a private)
Battalion Command	Commanding Officer of the 2nd Battalion, 505th PIR
Distinguished Service Cross Citations	Awarded by the President of the United States of America
Hall of Fame	Inducted into the Hall of Fame
Books	Featured in "The Way We Were," a WWII paratrooper portrait series by Michel de Trez
Reference	Wikipedia

Born in Gasport, New York, on March 3, 1915, Benjamin Hayes Vandervoort entered the world with a military legacy ingrained in his very being. Growing up in an army family, he was the son of Benjamin Franklin Vandervoort, an officer who served with distinction in both World War I and World War II. This upbringing undoubtedly instilled in him a sense of duty, discipline, and an understanding of the sacrifices inherent in military service.

His military career began in July 1937, when he enlisted as a private in the infantry. This humble beginning laid the foundation for his eventual rise through the ranks. Vandervoort's dedication, tactical acumen, and unwavering courage quickly set him apart. His early experiences provided the bedrock of knowledge and experience which would allow him to become a leader.

Promoted to lieutenant colonel on June 1, 1944, just days before the momentous events of D-Day, Vandervoort was given command of the 2nd Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment (PIR), part of the 82nd Airborne Division. This was a pivotal moment in his career, placing him at the forefront of one of the most audacious military operations in history.

On June 6, 1944, the Allied forces launched Operation Overlord, the invasion of Normandy. Vandervoort's 2nd Battalion was tasked with a crucial mission: to parachute behind enemy lines and secure vital strategic points in support of the amphibious landings. The chaos of the drop, coupled with the heavy enemy fire, meant that many units were scattered across the French countryside. Despite the adversity, Vandervoort, known for his calm demeanor and exceptional leadership, quickly rallied his troops.

The circumstances of the landing were difficult and many planes became lost, yet he, despite suffering a broken ankle during the initial jump, continued to lead his men with unwavering determination. Undeterred by his injury, he refused medical attention and remained at the forefront, directing the defense of the vital positions against relentless German counterattacks. His battalion successfully secured their objectives and held them against overwhelming odds until relieved by the forces advancing from the beaches.

His actions during the Normandy landings were nothing short of extraordinary. The Distinguished Service Cross, awarded to him on multiple occasions, stands as a testament to his valor. "The president of the United States of America, authorized by act of congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Benjamin H. Vandervoort," a testament to his service and sacrifice.

Later in the war, Vandervoort and his battalion were called upon once more for another daring operation: Operation Market Garden. On September 17, 1944, the 2nd Battalion, 505th PIR landed near Groesbeek, Holland. The objective was to seize a bridge over the Waal River at Nijmegen, a crucial link in the Allied advance. Vandervoort, in command, quickly organized his troops, and his battalion was involved in fierce fighting to secure their objectives.

Lieutenant Colonel Vandervoort hastened the reorganization and advanced with his leading element to capture the initial battalion objective in three and one half hours. He would team up one of his best battalions, Lt. Benjamin Vandervoort\u2019s 2nd battalion of the 505th parachute infantry, with the tanks of Lt. Moore\u2019s 2nd battalion of the grenadier guards and motorized infantry of Lt. Edward goulburn\u2019s 1st grenadier guards to drive north and onto the bridge. All three were veteran units.

In Nijmegen, Vandervoort faced a brutal and determined enemy. He made the decision to engage the enemy in close combat. With the help of tanks and allied infantry units, Vandervoort's battalion played a crucial role in the difficult battle to take the bridge. They fought house to house, street to street, often facing overwhelming German forces. Their determination and courage were pivotal in seizing the bridge.

His leadership was crucial in helping to lead the Allies towards victory. Vandervoort also sent a messenger to his superiors, showing that he could hold the bridge. His achievements during the war are nothing short of extraordinary. He was a great combat commander during World War II.

As Cook prepared his men, it was determined that Gavins most trusted battalion commander, Lieutenant Benjamin Vandervoort, would attack the western ends of the Waal Bridge with 2nd Battalion, 505th PIR. At the battalion assembly point on the outskirts of town, Sampson came across the injured Lieutenant Benjamin Vandervoort, his battalion commander. Vandervoorts determination and leadership capabilities continued to shine. Vandervoort's leadership, his ability to inspire courage, and his tactical brilliance under pressure were key factors in the successes of his battalion.

The legacy of Benjamin H. Vandervoort extends beyond the battlefield. He led one of the finest infantry battalions of the United States Army: the 2nd Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment. The 505th PIR of the 82nd Airborne Division is one of the finest parachute infantry regiments to emerge from the second world war. His actions have been documented by historians, his story has been immortalized in film, and his courage continues to inspire generations. His actions solidified him as a legend in the ranks of the 82nd Airborne. He truly earned the accolades presented to him.

Benjamin Hayes Vandervoort was a man of few words but his actions spoke volumes. Before embarking on a mission, his words to his men were: "[addressing soldiers before embarkation] you can't give the enemy a break." When addressing a congregation, he said: "[addressing congregation] in the heart of the darkness, in the deepest of the night, we must never lose hope. Let us keep our faith intact, steadfast!" Vandervoort's impact on his men and his nation is still felt today.

His story, like that of so many heroes of World War II, serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made and the price of freedom. His story has been told in numerous historical accounts, and most famously, in the film "The Longest Day," where John Wayne portrayed Vandervoort. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame. Vandervoort was a leader who embodied courage, and a man who inspires us to uphold the values of duty, honor, and sacrifice.

The letter appeared in E Company's unpublished book called echoes of the warriors. The work was edited and compiled by George Jacobus of E Company in 1992.

Meet the Heroes US Airborne Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin Vandervoort

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Lt. Colonel Benjamin "Vanddy" Vandervoort, 2nd Battalion, 505th

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