X-Men MTO (id:#61845)

(Vae Victis # 101 ID: VV 76)   [next]   [previous]

Gela, Italy 1943-07-10 (55 others)

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Overview:

At dawn on 10th July, 1943, a group under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Darby, the "X-Force" landed at Gela, the junction between the sectors of the 3rd and 1st Division. A paring of two Ranger battalions, the "X-Force" includes units of engineering that must clear mined area to facilitate the utilisation of the port and a heavy mortar battalion of I07 mm (4.2”). For fire support, the US Navy also played its role in this area. The Rangers faced a resistance uneven and generally ineffective, quickly taking control of the small town even if they continue to be harassed by isolated shooters. Several pieces of artillery were also captured and the Americans established a defensive perimeter around Gela. The Italian reaction proved fast, though poorly coordinated. In the morning, two mechanized columns of Gruppo Mobile "E" coming from the north, struck the protective fire of the US Navy. Only a few tanks penetrated into the town, where the Rangers, lead by Darby, did their hunting. A battalion from the "Livorno" Division then approached from the northwest…

Defender: American (1st Ranger Battalion)  

Errata (source)