Simplify the following text for a Grade 5 native English-speaking person.
Original: He forced a crossing of the Weser near modern Minden , suffering some losses to a Germanic skirmishing force , and forced Arminius ' army to stand in open battle at Idistaviso in the Battle of the Weser River .
Simplified: He was able to fight his way across the Weser near modern Minden , suffering some losses . He forced Arminius ' army to stand in open battle at the Weser River .