88th 'Blue Devils' Infantry Division from Minturno to Rome

The Blue Devils Division - Unyielding Resolve: The 88th Infantry Division’s Drive from Minturno to Rome - Key WWII Battlefields in Italy

Before exploring the actions of the 88th Division, it is essential to clarify a common misconception. Although Operation Diadem is often referred to as the fourth and final battle of Cassino, the 88th Division did not participate in combat in the Cassino sector. Instead, they were assigned to the western coastal sector, beginning their offensive near Minturno, approximately 30 kilometers from Cassino, and advancing north toward Rome.

Route of the 88th Division - Minturno to Rome - May 1944 The route taken by the 88th Infantry Division from Minturno to Rome was strategically significant, comprising a series of key battles and tactical maneuvers. Beginning in Minturno, the division advanced through several key towns and strongholds, each critical to the overall success of the offensive:

1. Minturno (May 11-12, 1944): The 349th Regiment initiated the assault on Minturno, encountering fierce German resistance along the Garigliano River. After securing key positions, they moved through the town, engaging in intense urban combat.

2. Santa Maria Infante (May 12-14, 1944): The division continued to press forward, with the 350th Regiment advancing through the rugged hills toward Santa Maria Infante. The regiment employed artillery barrages to neutralize well-fortified German positions and secure the high ground.

3. Formia (May 14-16, 1944): Following the capture of Santa Maria Infante, the 88th Division advanced toward Formia. The 350th Regiment executed a well-coordinated attack, utilizing close-quarters combat to clear buildings and secure supply routes.

4. Gaeta (May 16-18, 1944): The division faced heavy resistance in Gaeta, where German forces attempted to delay the Allied advance. The 351st Regiment played a pivotal role, protecting the division’s flanks and repelling counterattacks.

5. Terracina (May 18-20, 1944): The 350th Regiment led the assault on Terracina, engaging in street-to-street combat and clearing mines along critical routes. Their success in securing the town facilitated the division’s continued advance northward.

Overview of the 88th Division - The Blue Devils Division - WWII Campaign in Italy The 88th Infantry Division was composed of three primary regiments, each with distinct roles and characteristics during the campaign from Minturno to Rome:

349th Infantry Regiment - "The Spearhead": Known for its aggressive assault tactics, the 349th Regiment was tasked with leading many of the initial assaults. In the rugged terrain around Santa Maria Infante and Minturno, they spearheaded attacks on heavily fortified German positions, utilizing mortars, close-quarters combat, and coordinated artillery strikes. Their ability to break through enemy lines earned them the nickname "The Spearhead."

350th Infantry Regiment - "Iron Resolve": This regiment was characterized by its ability to hold critical ground under intense pressure. During the advance through Formia and Gaeta, the 350th Regiment executed complex urban warfare tactics, clearing buildings and securing supply routes. They were instrumental in securing the approaches to Terracina, where they faced fierce counterattacks by German forces.

351st Infantry Regiment - "The Anvil": Nicknamed "The Anvil" for its defensive capabilities, the 351st Regiment often held key positions while other regiments advanced. During the battles for Terracina and Gaeta, they protected the division’s flanks and repelled German counterattacks, ensuring the division’s steady advance toward Rome.

Customized Battlefield Tours - WWII Italy Tours: Minturno, Santa Maria Infante, Gaeta, Terracina, and More If you are interested in retracing the steps of the 88th Division, we offer personalized battlefield tours that can be customized to focus on specific regiments, battalions, or companies. Each unit had its unique experiences and battlefield objectives, providing rich historical insights into the Blue Devils’ campaign in Italy.

For customized itinerary please contact: danila.bracaglia@gmail.com or whatsapp +39 338 2458831