"The Allied Campaign in North-west Europe, 6 June 1944 - 7 May 1945" Crossing the Rhine 24 -31 March 1945: British commandos of the 1st Commando Brigade man two Vickers machine guns in the shattered outskirts of Wesel. The 1st Commandos had formed the spearhead of the British assault by making a surprise crossing in assault craft on the night of 23 - 24 March under a barrage of 1500 guns.