Operation Avalanche

Chapter five describes the invasion of Italy, specifically Operation Avalanche, the US Fifth Army landings at Salerno. The chapter starts with details on the planning and mounting of the operation, followed by the invasion. Allied landings are the most effective to date, showing clear evidence of improvement compared to North Africa and Sicily. The clearing of Naples port is intriguing story that is vital to Allied logistical support. As the campaign continues, the Allies have to transition to supporting mountain and winter warfare; leading to the use of large numbers of pack animals. Support of the civil population becomes a major task. The Allies begin developing a significant support base, to include establishment of the Peninsular Base Section and repair of civilian rail transport. The chapter concludes by detailing implications with the arrival of the French Expeditionary Corps and continuation of combat in the winter of 1943.