PROGRESS IN ITALY

Waikato Times, Volume 194, Issue 22354, 22 May 1944, Page 2

PROGRESS IN ITALY

Experience of the Italian campaign over many months is a sufficient warning for caution when attempting to look into the immediate future. But there are certain encouraging signs which indicate the possibility of more rapid developments. The Gustav Line has been smashed and already the Allies are crashing into the Hitler Line. It may be significant in this connection that the Germans are denying that a Hitler Line exists, in spite of the fact that they had previously described these fortifications as a perfect example of defensive preparedness for any Allied assault. The inference is obvious. Germany expects the Allies to break through the Hitler Line and it would never do to have to admit the destruction of a fortification bearing the name of the Fuehrer. The aura of omnipotence that has surrounded Hitler is already becoming too thin and is disclosing the fallibility of the man. The reputation of the Fuehrer must be protected at all costs. If the Hitler Line can be broken down, then perhaps the whole Hitler myth will be in danger. If and when the Allied forces break through the last defences in depth of the Hitler Line they will have reached within about 20 miles of the perimeter of the Anzio beachhead. All the pressure on the Italian front is from the Apennines to the sea on the west coast, which suggests that the aim is to link up with the Anzio beachhead and push on to Rome. Earlier in the campaign the Eighth Army had pushed up the Adriatic coast until the line ran from north to south rather than from east to west. No indication has yet been given what forces are holding the eastern end of the line. Most of the German strength is on the western side of the Apennines and it may be that the Allied line in the east also is comparatively lightly held. The Germans seem to be determined to cover Rome with the bulk of their forces, but with the initiative with the Allies they will have to dance to whatever tune the Allies choose to pipe. Junction with the Anzio beach! lead would not only substantially improve the Allies’ striking power but would improve their communications.