Veterans whom fought in Italy can opt for a tour to either Monte Cassino and Salerno or Monte Cassino and Anzio; a special tour to the National Memorial Arboretum is also on offer for those unable to travel overseas. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Italian campaign and the Royal British Legion is inviting veterans, which are now in their 90s, back to Italy to lay old ghosts to rest and honour fallen comrades.
The Treasury is enabling these free-of-charge tours, which are funded by LIBOR fines, and will enable a WWII veteran to return with a family member and carer. The Italian campaign proved to be a major turning point in World War II, but was also one of the hardest fought battles. The allies came under heavy artillery fire and at times were knee-deep in mud and snow. Fortunately, in May 1944 the allies prevailed.
Nichola Rowlands-Smith, head of travel for Royal British Legion, said: “The Italian campaign seems to be less well-known in the nation’s history than other battles such as D Day, yet it was another pivotal turning point in bringing to an end World War II. We have a wonderful opportunity to take back those who fought, for them to pay their respects to fallen comrades, meet fellow veterans and lay old ghosts to rest.”
The five-day Italian-based tours will include a service of remembrance at the Cassino War Cemetery plus visits to Anzio War Cemetery, Salerno Commonwealth War Cemetery and the Beach Head War Cemetery. The tour will also take in significant battle sites, such as the Monte Cassino Abbey as well as visits to local tourist locations. Veterans heading to the National Memorial Arboretum will take part in a four-day tour including a service of remembrance, as well as visits to Cannock Chase Cemetery and Staffordshire Regiment Museum. To find out more, call 01473 660800, or visit www.arenatravel.com/our-holidays/remembrance-travel.
