45th Infantry Division WWII Tour – From the Volturno to the Winter Line
Historical Introduction
The 45th Infantry Division and the Winter Line
The 45th Infantry Division, known as the Thunderbirds, was composed primarily of troops from Oklahoma, Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona. After fighting bravely in Sicily and at Salerno, the division continued its advance into central Italy, becoming a key unit in the Allied effort to break through the German defensive network known as the Winter Line—a series of fortifications designed to halt the Allied push north toward Rome.
In October 1943, the 45th crossed the Volturno River under fire, advancing through difficult terrain and autumn rains. By November, the division had reached the Mignano Gap, a narrow and heavily fortified valley flanked by high ground, including Monte Lungo and Monte Rotondo. These mountains anchored the German Bernhardt Line (a sector of the broader Winter Line), and it was here that the 45th Infantry Division engaged in some of its fiercest fighting during the Italian Campaign.
Key Battles of the 45th Division along the Winter Line
Volturno River Crossing (October 13–14, 1943): The division crossed near Triflisco under heavy resistance, establishing a vital bridgehead. Venafro & Roccapipirozzi: Artillery staging and infantry skirmishes opened the way to the Mignano Gap. Monte la Difensa (Nov 30 – Dec 2): Though led by the 1st Special Service Force, this battle aided the 45th’s flanking movements.Battle of Monte Rotondo (Nov 7–9 and 15–16): A key height targeted in multiple assaults with strong German resistance.Monte Lungo Assault (Dec 5–9): Coordinated attack with the Italian co-belligerent army; supported by 45th artillery.Regiments Involved
157th Infantry Regiment179th Infantry Regiment180th Infantry Regiment120th Engineer Combat Battalion158th Field Artillery BattalionTour Itinerary – Day 1: Volturno to Winter Line
Start: Pickup in Cassino or Venafro at 9:30 AM (time frame can be customized)Volturno River crossing site: Overview of Operation and terrain challengesVenafro: HQ of the 45th Division and strategic crossroads Roccapipirozzi: Frontline positions and infantry engagements Monte Lungo: Site of major battle and Italian co-belligerent army involvementWinter Line Museum in Mignano: Weapons, uniforms, maps and local memoryOptional Day 2 – Anzio Beachhead Tour
Visit to Anzio landing beaches and museumAmerican Cemetery of NettunoSites of heavy 45th Division fighting near ApriliaTour Details
Language: EnglishDuration: 1 or 2 daysTransportation: Comfortable van with video display onboard Extras: Snacks, cold water, multimedia materialsContact & Booking