Darby’s Rangers WWII Tour
Follow the story of Darby’s Rangers during their dramatic and tragic campaign at Anzio in early 1944. This tour retraces the path of one of the most legendary units of the U.S. Army — from the amphibious landing at Yellow Beach, through key combat sites, to the disastrous Battle of Cisterna and beyond.
Whether you are a descendant of a Ranger, a military history enthusiast, or interested in elite infantry operations, this private tour offers a deep, research-based, and highly personal journey through the terrain where these men fought and fell.
YELLOW BEACH – AMPHIBIOUS LANDING SITE
We begin the tour at Yellow Beach, the landing zone of Darby’s Rangers on January 22, 1944. The original building used as their headquarters during the early days of the Anzio beachhead is still standing — a rare and moving survivor of the battle.
Here, we explore the strategic objectives of Operation Shingle, the conditions of the beachhead, and the Rangers’ vital role in the first inland movements.
SICILY–ROME AMERICAN CEMETERY – NETTUNO
Next, we visit the American Cemetery in Nettuno, where over 7,800 U.S. soldiers are buried. Among them are many members of Darby’s Rangers who fell during the fighting at Anzio and Cisterna.
Time is set aside for personal reflection, and assistance is offered in locating the name or grave of a loved one or specific unit member on the Wall of the Missing.
ADVANCE THROUGH THE CANALE MUSSOLINI
We follow the route taken by the Rangers as they advanced inland along the Canale Mussolini, a straight canal cut through the reclaimed Pontine Marshes.
This area was the scene of intense enemy observation, patrol activity, and eventual ambushes. You’ll gain insight into the terrain’s impact on tactics and the difficulty of movement under constant threat.
ISOLA BELLA – THE AMBUSH
At Isola Bella, we explore the site of a tragic ambush that struck Darby’s men during one of their key reconnaissance missions.
This was a moment of great loss for the unit and marked the increasing strength of the German defensive line. The story is told through contemporary reports, maps, and survivor accounts.
CISTERNA DI LATINA – THE FINAL ASSAULT
We then arrive at Cisterna, where Darby’s Rangers launched their most daring and ill-fated assault on January 30, 1944.
Three battalions moved before dawn to infiltrate the German lines — but were met by overwhelming resistance. Out of 767 Rangers, only a handful made it back. This battle effectively ended the role of U.S. Rangers as assault troops in the Italian campaign.
Here, we walk the ground, analyze the battlefield, and reflect on one of the U.S. Army’s most devastating setbacks.
PIANA DELLE ORME – THE MUSEUM EXPERIENCE
The final stop of the tour is the Piana delle Orme Museum, one of the largest private WWII collections in Italy.
Inside, you’ll find reconstructions of the Anzio landings, dioramas, rare vehicles, and artifacts that help contextualize what you’ve seen in the field. It’s a powerful way to close the experience, connecting the human stories to preserved history.
WHY CHOOSE THIS TOUR
This is not a general sightseeing tour. It is a tailored, historically accurate, and emotionally respectful experience, led by a licensed battlefield historian and expert guide.
You will travel in a Mercedes van with multimedia, including maps, archival images, and original footage to bring each stop to life.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
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Custom itinerary focused on Darby’s Rangers at Anzio and Cisterna
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Private transportation with driver and guide
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On-site interpretation with historical materials
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Entrance to the Piana delle Orme Museum
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Visits to key battlefield locations, cemeteries, and memorials
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Optional lunch with local cuisine
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Personalized research (upon request)
BOOKINGS AND INQUIRIES
Would you like to walk in the footsteps of Darby’s Rangers and honor their legacy?
Contact Dr. Danila Bracaglia to plan your personalized WWII battlefield tour.
Email: danila.bracaglia@gmail.com
WhatsApp: +39 338 2458831
Website: www.anziotours.com
