RUIN & DESOLATION

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 78, 2 October 1943, Page 2

RUIN & DESOLATION

CITY OF NAPLES DESTRUCTION BY GERMANS PURSUITOF ENEMY Ilugby, October 1. The Germans are reported to have evacuated Naples before our troops entered. News of the Fifth Army’s entry into Naples came from Allied headquarters, and the city is reported to have been cleared of Germans. Fifth Army troops who to-day occupied Naples are already reported to be pushing on northwards to the next important centres on the road to Rome. Reports from Allied headquarters describe the Fifth Army’s entry into Naples as five German divisions defending the city managed to get away. Many of the enemy’s rearguards, including some of his finest troops, are said to have been wiped out. Naples is one of the greatest prizes which has fallen into our hands. It is the biggest city in southern Italy and one of the largest ports in the Mediterranean. The city has often been described as the most beautiful city in southern Italy, and one of the largest ports in the Mediterranean, but the Germans according to all accounts made it a city of ruin and desolation. For the past week there has been a huge black pall of smoke hanging over it. The Germans sank ships in the harbour, destroyed the water supply and blew up buildings of military value in an attempt to deny the Allies use of Naples as a port and military centre. The enemy did not confine himself to buildings of military importance. Many beautiful and historic places, including the famous Royal Palace, are reported to have been wantonly destroyed. The Germans are also retreating east of Naples. While t! - left flank of the Fifth Army was closing in vii the city yesterday men of the right flank vere marching into the important read and railway junction of A veil' -\ about 30 miles east of Naples. This advance brings our forces close to the line of the Volturno river, which it is thought possible the Germans might defend. A later message says it is officially announced that Avelino has been captured.