FSSF Anzio WWII Tour
The Devil’s Brigade in Italy – The Story of Gusville at Anzio
February 1944 – A Quarter of the Anzio Beachhead Held by a Few Hundred “Not Ordinary” Men
This is the story of the Devil’s Brigade at Gusville — an elite joint American-Canadian commando unit known officially as the First Special Service Force (FSSF).
Who Were the Devil’s Brigade?
The First Special Service Force was a unique WWII unit trained at Fort Harrison near Helena, Montana. They are considered the forerunners of modern American and Canadian special forces. In 2013, the U.S. Congress awarded them the Congressional Gold Medal.
Between December 1943 and June 1944, the FSSF fought across Italy. On December 2–3, 1943, they captured Monte La Difensa and La Rementanea, breaking through the German Winter Line. After landing at Anzio on February 1, 1944, their aggressive night patrols earned them the nickname "The Devil’s Brigade."
The Story Behind Gusville
Upon landing at the Anzio Beachhead, the FSSF’s 1st Regiment conducted daring night raids. Lt. Gus Heilman’s No. 2 Company crossed Bridge 1 near Borgo Sabotino and reached the Fogliano Canal Lockhouse — deep in German territory.
Borgo Sabotino, originally called Passo Genovese, became strategically important during Mussolini’s 1920s land reclamation campaign. For 99 days in 1944, the town was renamed Gusville in honor of Lt. Heilman.
Life Inside Gusville: A Village at War
2nd Company of the 1st Regiment made Gusville their base. War correspondents came to report from "Tank Street," named after a German tank that fired daily into the town.
The Forcemen built a life among the ruins — raising chickens, pigs, and gardens, and even establishing a makeshift bar, inspired by Lt. Heilman’s pre-war establishment, the Cavalier Bar.
The Gusville Herald Tribune
The soldiers created their own newspaper, the Gusville Herald Tribune, praised for its humor and morale-boosting tone. Their psychological warfare included leaving stickers on enemy lines with their unit patch and the ominous message:
"DAS DICKE ENDE KOMMT NOCH!" — "The Worst Is Yet to Come."
The Black Devils and the Breakout
With reinforcements, including U.S. Rangers, the FSSF maintained a combat strength between 1,300 and 1,700 men.
On May 23, 1944, they led the breakout across the Mussolini Canal and Highway 7, breaking the German defenses.
By June 4, 1944, the Devil’s Brigade entered Rome, with General Robert Frederick at the front. He was wounded three times during the campaign, making him the most wounded general in U.S. history.
Legacy
The Devil’s Brigade and the story of Gusville remain powerful symbols of daring, sacrifice, and ingenuity. The original structure known as Cabbage Castle, once their command post, still stands near the landing beach — a poignant reminder of their courage.
Visit the Battlefield Today
Walking the Anzio battlefields today is a powerful and emotional experience. Many of the original wartime buildings remain, including Cabbage Castle, near the FSSF’s landing zone.
Walk in the footsteps of the Devil’s Brigade. Stand where they fought. And remember what they achieved.
Book Your WWII Anzio Battlefield Tour
Interested in visiting Gusville, the Mussolini Canal, and the sites of the Devil’s Brigade?
Book a private WWII battlefield tour with expert historian and guide Dr. Danila Bracaglia.
Email: danila.bracaglia@gmail.com
WhatsApp: +39 338 2458831
