INVASION OF ITALY STARTS

Manawatu Times, Volume 68, Issue 210, 4 September 1943, Page 5

INVASION OF ITALY STARTS

TASK OF LANDING HANDED TO EIGHTH ARMY United Press Assn.—By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright. Received Friday, 7.25 p.m. NEW YORK, September 3. Allied Headquarters in North Africa announce that the Eighth Army has landed in Southern Italy from Sicily and is engaged in heavy fighting mostly against crack German troops. The landing started at 4.30 a.m. opposite Messina, the Eighth Army being supported by sea and air power. Extensive shelling of enemy fortifications was carried out, many big guns being put out of action. Both British and Canadian troops are in action, i it is reported there will be stiff resistance to be overcome because of lack of communications and the difficult nature of the country. The Columbia Broadcasting System’s Algiers correspondent says the landing is a continuation of the previous campaign and is not the start of a new campaign. It is expected resistance will be heavy, but indications are that we are off with a good start The landing was made in darkness. Before the main assault forces landed, a number of smaller reconnaissance landings were made to pave the way. These small amphibious operations were carried out night after night and sent the enemy off his balance for the main attack, secured valuable information regarding his dispositions, and also knocked out some coastal defences. The United Press says the absence of the mention of American troops in the landing has stirred speculation that they may be poised for a further landing in Italy or elsewhere, possibly Sardinia.