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 mix of American cultures and Native American heritage. Its insignia, a golden thunderbird, symbolized power and protection.
WWII Campaigns of the 45th Infantry Division:
- Sicily (July 1943)
- Salerno (September 1943)
- Anzio (January–May 1944)
- Southern France (August 1944)
- Germany, including Dachau liberation (1945)
The Anzio Campaign
In late January 1944, the 45th landed at Anzio during Operation Shingle. Although they arrived after the first wave, they became central to the defense and eventual breakout from the beachhead.
From February to May, they endured relentless German attacks. In May 1944, they advanced through:
- Aprilia ("The Factory")
- Campoleone (strategic rail junction)
- Albano and Genzano (gateway to the Alban Hills)
On June 4, 1944, Allied forces entered Rome — thanks in part to the 45th Division’s efforts.
Losses and Legacy
- Anzio casualties: approx. 6,500 (over 1,200 killed)
- Total WWII casualties: over 21,000
- Decorations: 8 campaign stars, 4 Medals of Honor
Their legacy lives in the towns they liberated — and in the cemeteries where they rest.
In Their Footsteps: A Pilgrimage Before Nettuno
Follow the 45th Infantry Division's path from battlefield to final rest. Sites include:
1. Piana delle Orme Museum – Historical Context
An immersive WWII museum near Latina with reconstructions of the Anzio landings and beachhead life.
2. Campoleone – Breaking the German Line
What happened: In late May 1944, the 45th stormed Campoleone under fire.
Who fell: Pfc. Allen Tupper Brown, 157th Infantry Regiment – KIA May 29, 1944.
3. Albano & Genzano – The Push into the Alban Hills
Ancient towns fiercely defended by German forces, marking the last obstacle before Rome.
4. Aprilia Overpass ("The Factory")
Ruined industrial buildings where the 45th fought to breach the fortified German line.
5. Anzio Harbor and Beachhead Ridges
Who fell: Pfc. John G. Raad, 180th Infantry Regiment – KIA March 22, 1944.
Site of the division's landings under artillery and counterattack.
6. Sicily–Rome American Cemetery – Final Tribute
Over 7,800 U.S. soldiers rest here, including dozens from the 45th Division's 157th, 179th, and 180th Regiments.
Visit the grave locator kiosk, Memorial Chapel, and Walls of the Missing.
Why It Matters
The Thunderbirds didn’t fight for conquest, but for liberation. They endured oceans, mud, and fire — and gave everything.
To walk where they fought is to carry their story forward. To visit where they rest is to honor their promise.
They brought freedom. We must bring remembrance.
Interested in a guided WWII tour? Contact Dr. Danila Bracaglia at danila.bracaglia@gmail.com or WhatsApp +39 338 2458831.
