Some of the most ferocious fighting of the Second World War took place in the mountains of Southern Italy. Far from the eyes of the western press and overshadowed by the prospect of the Normandy landings, this campaign, and especially this vital battle in Italy remains little known.

This vital (two-part) battle had to be fought to reach Germany’s main defences on the Gustav Line. Far too few British units were deployed in the first battle resulting in a high casualty rate.  The same troops were sent back a second time to help finish the job! The story includes the famous American/Canadian First Special Service Force assualt having climbed the rocks of Monte La Defensa.