First Trial-By-Fire MTO (id:#60098)

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Northeast of Gela, Sicily 1943-07-11 (48 others)

Overview:

Just over a year after its activation, the 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, under the capable leadership of Colonel James M. "Jumping Jim" Gavin, made its first regimental size combat parachute attack as part of the Allied Invasion of Sicily known as “Operation Husky.” The 505th’s objective was to drop behind enemy lines around Gela, close off roads leading to beaches and secure the drop zone for further use. Less than one-fifth of the 505th's members were dropped in the correct Drop Zone; nevertheless, small groups of lost paratroopers cut every phone line they found, disrupting the communications of the Axis forces. As a result it was not until mid-morning that the Livorno Infantry Division was finally assembled and moving toward the beaches. The first Americans to feel the brunt of the Italian-led counterattack were Lt. Col. Gorham and his hundred paratroopers from 1st Battalion who had set up a blocking position astride the road between Niscemi and Gela.

Defender: American (1st Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment)  

Errata (source)