Tiring of his headquarters role, Spurdle volunteered for duty as an air-support controller. Having received training in radio duties, Spurdle participated in Operation Varsity, the second airborne crossing of the Rhine. Attached to the British 6th Airborne Division, he was commander of three RAF radio teams. Landed by glider at Wesel on 24 March, his teams were tasked with handling of air-support for the ground forces involved in the action. For his work on this occasion, he was mentioned in despatches. He was later attached to the 11th Armoured Division, working in a similar role co-ordinating fighter activities in support of the British forces as they advanced to the Elbe, where he finished the war in May 1945.