45th Infantry Division WWII Tour – From the Volturno to the Winter Line

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 Regiment
  • 179th Infantry Regiment
  • 180th Infantry Regiment
  • 120th Engineer Combat Battalion
  • 158th Field Artillery Battalion
  • Tour 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 challenges
  • Venafro: 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 involvement
  • Winter Line Museum in Mignano: Weapons, uniforms, maps and local memory
  • Optional Day 2 – Anzio Beachhead Tour 

  • Visit to Anzio landing beaches and museum
  • American Cemetery of Nettuno
  • Sites of heavy 45th Division fighting near Aprilia
  • Tour Details

  • Language: English
  • Duration: 1 or 2 days
  • Transportation: Comfortable van with video display onboard 
  • Extras: Snacks, cold water, multimedia materials
  • Contact & Booking

    WhatsApp: +39 338 2458831