WWII Anzio Tour – 45th Infantry Division “Thunderbirds”
WWII Anzio Tour – Thunderbirds of the 45th Infantry Division
A Journey Through Fire, Memory, and the Duty to Remember
Who Were the Thunderbirds?
The 45th Infantry Division, known as the "Thunderbirds", was formed by National Guardsmen from Oklahoma, New Mexico, Colorado, and Arizona — a proud blend of American cultures and Native American heritage. Their insignia, a golden thunderbird, symbolized strength, protection, and unity.
WWII Campaigns of the 45th Infantry Division
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Sicily – July 1943
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Salerno – September 1943
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Anzio – January to May 1944
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Southern France – August 1944
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Germany (including the liberation of Dachau) – 1945
The Anzio Campaign
In late January 1944, the 45th landed at Anzio as part of Operation Shingle. Though not part of the initial wave, they played a decisive role in the defense of the beachhead and the eventual breakout toward Rome.
Between February and May, the division held firm against relentless German attacks. In May 1944, they pushed forward through:
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Aprilia (“The Factory”)
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Campoleone – a strategic rail junction
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Albano and Genzano – key towns guarding access to the Alban Hills
On June 4, 1944, Allied forces entered Rome — thanks in part to the fierce determination of the 45th Infantry Division.
Losses and Legacy
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Anzio casualties: Approx. 6,500, including over 1,200 killed
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Total WWII casualties: Over 21,000
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Decorations: 8 campaign stars, 4 Medals of Honor
Their legacy lives in the towns they liberated, and in the cemeteries where they now rest.
In Their Footsteps: A Pilgrimage Before Nettuno
Follow the 45th Infantry Division’s historic path — from battlefield to final resting place. Key sites include:
1. Piana delle Orme Museum – Historical Context
A large immersive museum near Latina with detailed reconstructions of the Anzio landings, trench life, and Allied operations in Italy.
2. Campoleone – Breaking the German Line
In late May 1944, the 45th Division stormed Campoleone under heavy fire.
Pfc. Allen Tupper Brown, 157th Infantry Regiment, was killed in action on May 29, 1944.
3. Albano & Genzano – The Push into the Alban Hills
Ancient hill towns fiercely defended by German forces, representing the final obstacle before reaching Rome.
4. Aprilia Overpass – “The Factory”
A ruined industrial zone that became a fortified German stronghold. The 45th fought desperately to breach it under constant artillery fire.
5. Anzio Harbor and Beachhead Ridges
Pfc. John G. Raad, 180th Infantry Regiment, fell here on March 22, 1944.
These beaches and ridges witnessed bloody landings and fierce resistance.
6. Sicily–Rome American Cemetery – Final Tribute
Over 7,800 U.S. soldiers are buried here, including dozens from the 45th’s 157th, 179th, and 180th Regiments.
Visit the grave locator kiosk, the Memorial Chapel, and the Walls of the Missing.
Why It Matters
The Thunderbirds fought not for conquest, but for freedom. They crossed oceans, braved artillery, endured mud and fire — and gave everything they had.
To walk where they fought is to carry their legacy forward.
To visit where they rest is to honor the promise they kept.
They brought freedom. We must bring remembrance.
Book Your WWII Anzio Tour – Thunderbirds Route
Interested in a guided battlefield tour that follows the footsteps of the 45th Infantry Division?
Contact Dr. Danila Bracaglia for a private, historical experience.
Email: danila.bracaglia@gmail.com
WhatsApp: +39 338 2458831
