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- Battle of Rapido River during the Second World War -


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World War 2 Two II WW2 WWII 1939 1945

Battle of Rapido River



   The Battle of Rapido River took place on 20-22 January 1943 near Cassino, Italy and resulted in an Allied withdrawal. The action, which involved an attempted crossing of the river south of Monte Cassino, was part of an effort by the US Fifth Army to breach a series of German defensive positions known as the Winter Line (also known as the Gustav Line) that stretched across Italy between Rome and Naples. The 141st and 143rd Infantry Regiments of the US 36th Infantry Division were the main Allied units involved in the action. Although initially successful in crossing the river, the Americans could not establish a bridgehead on the far side due to intense German resistance and were driven back across the river with very heavy casualties.

 


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Those known to have fought in

Battle of Rapido River

during the Second World War 1939-1945.

The names on this list have been submitted by relatives, friends, neighbours and others who wish to remember them, if you have any names to add or any recollections or photos of those listed, please Add a Name to this List



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Want to know more about Battle of Rapido River?


There are:0 items tagged Battle of Rapido River available in our Library

  These include information on officers, regimental histories, letters, diary entries, personal accounts and information about actions during the Second World War.


Pvt. Harold L. Thompson 2nd Btn. G Coy. 141st Infantry Regiment

Harold Thompson enlisted in the U.S. Army on 24th of November 1942 at the age of 20. He served in G Company, 2nd Battalion, 141st Infantry Regiment in the 36th Infantry Division. He had spent some time in North Africa for additional training before he would fight in Italy.

His baptism of fire occurred around 0330 on 9th of September 1943 on the beach at Salerno, Italy during Operation Avalanche. In the weeks that followed, Harold and the 141st Infantry Regiment fought up Highway 6 to Monte Cassino. By January 1944, the 36th Infantry Division was at the vicinity of San Angelo. Harold was fighting in a battle known as the Battle of Rapido River at the time of his capture. This battle took place from 20th of January through 22nd of January 1944, when he was reported as missing in action. Harold was one of approximately 770 men captured at the Rapido River. Harold would spend 503 days in captivity at Stalag IV-B.

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