Cassino ’44

The Allied advance towards Rome is blocked by the German defensive system centred on the mountains and valleys around Cassino. Between January and May 1944, repeated attacks involve British, American, Polish, French, Indian, New Zealand and other forces while Italian civilians remain trapped within the battle zone.

Holland follows frontline troops, aircrew, commanders and civilians through the bombing of the monastery and the four major battles. Terrain, weather and coalition command complicate every operation. The account shows why tactical courage could not compensate for poor coordination, and how the eventual breakthrough was purchased through months of cumulative loss.