36th Infantry Division WWII Tour

The T-Patchers in the Italian Campaign

Follow in the footsteps of the brave men of the 36th Infantry Division — the legendary “T-Patchers” from Texas — who fought through mountains, rivers, and fortified villages during the Italian Campaign of World War II.

This private, full-day battlefield tour is led by historian and licensed guide Dr. Danila Bracaglia, and is ideal for families of veterans, military history enthusiasts, and educators.

The tour focuses on the battles that defined the division’s actions along the Gustav Line, including the harrowing Rapido River crossing and the high-ground fighting of the 142nd Infantry Regiment near Monte Lungo and Monte Castellone. With historical footage, maps, and veteran testimonies, this tour honors the sacrifice, strategy, and spirit of the 36th Division in Italy.

Suggested Itinerary

The itinerary is fully customizable based on your time, interests, and any specific family connections. Pick-up is available from Cassino train station or local hotels. You’ll travel in a comfortable Mercedes van with air conditioning and a large screen for historical photos and videos.

• San Pietro Infine – Visit the haunting ruins of this destroyed medieval village, preserved as a national memorial. Learn about the fierce battle of December 1943 and the 36th Division’s role in breaking through the German defenses.
• Monte Lungo – Explore the battlefield where the 142nd Infantry Regiment, alongside Italian forces, launched a bold attack on this dominant peak.
• Monte Trocchio & Monte Castellone Viewpoints – Trace the uphill path of the 142nd Regiment as they pushed toward Cassino under constant fire.
• Sant’Angelo in Theodice and the Rapido River – Stand on the riverbank where the 36th attempted a daring crossing on January 20–21, 1944.
• Rapido Memorial and Bell of Peace – Reflect at the monument honoring the fallen T-Patchers who never made it across.
• Optional – Terelle Advance Trail – Follow the path of the 142nd Infantry’s mountain advance toward Terelle.
• Optional – Monte Cassino Abbey – Visit the final Allied objective, destroyed in 1944 and later rebuilt.

The 36th Infantry Division on the Gustav Line

The 36th Infantry Division, formed from the Texas National Guard, was one of the first American units to land in mainland Italy. After fighting through southern Italy and the Volturno Line, the division reached the Gustav Line in late 1943 — a heavily fortified German position that blocked the Allied advance to Rome.

At San Pietro Infine, the division engaged in a grueling battle against German troops of the 15th Panzergrenadier Division. The terrain was unforgiving, the weather cold, and the village had been transformed into a defensive fortress. The village was eventually taken, but at great cost.

The 142nd Regiment: High Ground Battles

The 142nd Infantry Regiment operated on the division’s right flank and distinguished itself in mountainous terrain. On December 15, 1943, they launched a determined assault on Monte Lungo, supported by the newly arrived Italian 1st Motorized Group.

The summit was secured after fierce combat, marking a turning point for Italian forces re-entering the war alongside the Allies. From there, the regiment advanced through Monte Castellone and Monte Trocchio — strategic heights overlooking Cassino and the Rapido River. The 142nd later advanced toward Terelle, engaging in bitter mountain warfare against German paratroopers in harsh winter conditions.

The Rapido River Crossing

One of the most tragic chapters in the division’s history occurred in January 1944. In a diversionary move to support the Anzio landings, the 36th was ordered to cross the Rapido River and break through the Gustav Line.

Poor planning, strong German resistance, and unfavorable terrain led to catastrophic losses. Over two nights, more than 2,000 men were killed, wounded, or captured — one of the most avoidable disasters of the Italian Campaign.

Today, a solemn memorial at Sant’Angelo marks the site of the crossing and honors the fallen. It is one of the most emotionally powerful stops on the tour, especially for descendants of those who served.

What’s Included

• Full-day private tour – With historian and battlefield guide Dr. Danila Bracaglia.
• Comfortable Mercedes van – Equipped with AC and multimedia screen.
• Custom itinerary – Tailored to your interests or family history.
• On-site storytelling – With maps, photos, documents, and veteran accounts.
• Optional visits – To cemeteries, archives, or personal research stops.

Book Your Tour

Ready to discover the legacy of the T-Patchers in Italy? Contact Dr. Danila Bracaglia to reserve your personalized battlefield tour. Whether you are a descendant, a researcher, or a passionate traveler, this journey will leave a lasting impression.

Email: danila.bracaglia@gmail.com
WhatsApp: +39 338 2458831