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from Giuliana, recorded on 4/25/2012 11:58:39 AM
Lo avevo già letto, ma non avevo lasciato un messaggio. Adesso l'ho riletto con grande piacere e ti faccio i miei complimenti. Bravo!

from Sergio Tazzer, recorded on 4/24/2012 1:53:40 PM
complimenti per la pagina di storia che lei è riuscito così bene a ricostruire.

from Richard D. Castillo, recorded on 4/10/2012 6:43:51 PM
Hello,
My name is Richard D. Castillo. I read this great article about 88th Division, Blue Devils. My father, Louis Castillo was in the 88th Division Blue Devils and I remember him telling me about the battle in Cornuda during World War 11. I distinctly remember him telling that a witnessed a Nazi soldier execute a young man while his mother was hysterical, that really had an inpact on my father as it greatly saddened him. My father was involved in helping out the people of Cornuda. Like all the soldiers, my father was a brave man.
After the war, my father met my mother Caterina Roso of Merano, married her and brought her to San Francisco Bay Area in 1947. Here my sister Mary Louise was born as well as my self.

Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,

Richard Domenico Castillo

from VITO CAPUTI (MASTRONARDI), recorded on 3/13/2012 4:06:56 AM
HELLO,
MY BROTHER, VINCENT CAPUTI(OUR MOTHERS MAIDEN NAME IS MASTRONARDI). VINCENT WAS BORN IN ITALY 1925 IN THE BASILICATO REGION SMALL TOWN CALLED CRACO. HE IMAGRATED TO THE US AT 13 YRS OLD. AT 18 HE WAS DRAFTED AND THEN PLACED IN THE 88TH INFATRY. HE WAS WOUNDED IN ANZIO, CASINO. AND AGAIN IN THE NORTH, BOLOGNIA. HE RECIEVED THE BRONZE STAR AND PURPLE HEART WITH 2 STARS. UNFORTUNETLY HE SECCUBED TO THE WOUNDS AND DIED IN 1958.
OUR OLDER BROTHER JOSEPH CAPUTI, WAS IN THE ITALIAN ARMY. HE SURVIVED AND WE WERE ALL UNITED IN BROOKLYN IN 1946-7.
OUR UNCLE, ITALIAN ARMY GENERAL DURING WWII. GEN VITO GAETANO MASTRONARDI WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN GETTING JOSEPH RELEASED AND SENT TO THE US.
I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF ANYONE KNEW AND FORT WITH VINCENT.
TOWARD THE FINAL DAYS OF THE WAR, IN ROME VINCENT MET UP WITH OUR BROTHER JOSEPH AND OUR UNCLE THE GEN.

from Paolo Chiodarelli, recorded on 3/12/2012 9:36:26 PM
Ciao,sono un appassionato della campagna d'Italia e sono nato a Revere (MN) ,paese che fu liberato proprio dai soldati della 88th inf.div. 351 rgt.(ho alcune foto tratte dalla rivista YANK e non solo .se vuoi te le invio).Sono in possesso anche di qualche oggetto proveniente da monte Battaglia ,dove i blue devils combatterono molto duramente,ringrazio con tutto il mio cuore quei ragazzi americani.
Complimenti per il sito

from don GIORGIO MORLIN, recorded on 3/11/2012 7:41:37 PM
Io, sacerdote originario di Caerano San Marco e attualmente parroco a Mogliano Veneto, nel 1995 ho scritto "La memoria e la pietà" sui giorni della liberazione di Caerano e dintorni: dalla fine di aprile ai primi giorni di maggio 1945. Non so se Davide Bedin ha letto quel libro. Ho dato una scorsa veloce al sito sulla liberazione di Cornuda: veramente eccezionale come documentazione e come articolata strutturazione della ricerca storica in oggetto. Visto che siamo quasi paesani, sarebbe mio desidero interloquire con Bedin su alcune vicende storiche belliche di quel periodo, relative al triangolo geografico di Cornuda, Caerano, Montebelluna. Per il momento possiamo magari servirci della mail.
don Giorgio Morlin

from costa dario, recorded on 3/11/2012 11:47:20 AM
ottimo lavoro,puntuale senza retorica,storico.fatto bene.grazie.

from John Fallis, recorded on 2/19/2012 5:30:26 AM
A very nice web site. My uncle Edmund Fallis was a Sgt. in the 349th. He died in 1950 but I remember him in his uniform when he came back from Europe. I could only have been a little over three years old. He brought back music boxes and other gifts for the family from Italy. I have a childs accordion that he brought back for me. There were a lot of photos but they are gone now. Many photos were of children from an orphanage or school that he befriended. Again thank you for the site.

from Irene Raspanti, recorded on 1/27/2012 11:55:49 PM
Noto solo ora che non c'è un modulo di risposta.
La mia mail è

capbob@tin.it

from Irene Raspanti, recorded on 1/27/2012 11:49:23 PM
Mio padre Dino mi ha sempre raccontato che a 17 anni si unì come meccanico e tuttofare ai soldati ameriocani di stanza a Piancaldoli. Qualcuno ha notizie o ricordi di quei giorni? o sa di quale divisione facevano parte tali soldati? Grazie

My father Dino told me he passed some months with the American soldiers who stopped in Piancaldoli (FI) Which division where the soldiers? Or is there somebody who remembers that period? Thank you very much

from Mary Pruett Whatley, recorded on 1/26/2012 8:47:20 PM
My father was Capt. Marshall Edwin Pruett, Company commander of 425th Dump Truck Company, 313th Combat Engineer Battalion, 88th Division who served in N. Africa 1943 and Italy, 1943-1945. If anyone knows of this company or of him, please contact me. He died in 1963 and I have so many questions.

from Pier Luigi Cavalchini, recorded on 1/16/2012 2:25:10 PM
Sono un prof di una Scuola Superiore Statale di Alessandria. Sto lavorando, con altri colleghi e alunni ad una ricerca su Marzabotto BO, la seconda guerra mondiale ed il relativo eccidio. Abbiamo messo in piedi anche un piccolo lavoro sul web. A chi interessa puo' andare su www.wix.com/italy2ww/marzabotto . Complimenti vivissimi per il lavoro da te/voi postato. E' bello, documentato ed utile. Per contatti : cavalchi@tin.it . prof Cavalchini Pier Luigi - IIS Saluzzo-Plana di Alessandria - Italia

from Tony Trionfo, recorded on 12/28/2011 10:12:57 PM
I am trying to locate the home of my Great Grandparents FRANCESCO & MARIA TRIONFO who lived in Pulcherini.
They were parents of GIUSEPPE TRIONFO, PASQUALE TRIONFO (MY GRANDFATHER), ANTONIA TRIONFO, and CONCHETTA TRIONFO. CONCHETTA lived with her mother in the house after her father past away. MATIA past around 1946.
ANTONIA TRIONFO was married to a GIOVANNI MALLOZZI from the same town and had a daughter JOSEPHINE MALLOZZI who immigrated to the USA in the early 1950s.
ANTONIA TRIONFO remained although she went back and forth.
JOSEPHINE and her sister married two ZINICOLA brothers.
Any helpn finding my Grandparents home will be greatly appreciated.

from Carla, recorded on 12/22/2011 7:40:54 AM
Ho riletto tutto la tua ricerca. Coinvolgente,documentata, veramente interessante. Ogni volta è una riscoperta.
Bisogna fare in modo che i cornudesi la leggano, soprattutto i più giovani. E pensare che la nostra scuola ha i laboratori informatici e potrebbe far studiare la storia locale attraverso uno strumento che piace tanto agli adolescenti.

from Dan Post, recorded on 12/4/2011 5:50:02 PM
Thanks for the wonderful work you've done on the site. My father Sam Post was in the 88th Div, in one of the field artillery regiments in 44-45. He had told us of his going from Pisa through the Po Vally, Bolzano ( where he met Anne, a lady who wrote to us for years after the war; I still have the beautiful birthday cards she sent when I was a child!), through the Brenner Pass and finally into Trieste where he was stationed with some UK troops (He never did like bagpipe music after that!). I still have the pistol he 'liberated' from a German Lt. who was being repatriated back to Germany, in exchange for two cartons of American cigarettes. I can't remember which Artillery regiment with which he served, but if there are any old time Field gunners out there, I'd love to hear from you!
Ciao, Davide, Mille Grazie!

from tim lupkes, recorded on 10/27/2011 12:55:29 AM
my dad was in 752 tk btn. picture of his tank in footage. he was very proud of his service. talked about crossing po river with blue devils on his tank, first to arrive in verona ahead of retreating germans. set up roadblocks and captured,wounded,and killed german soldiers. 752 tk btn. recieved presidential unit citation for this action. only armored unit in italy to recieve this honor.

from Tim Unrein, recorded on 10/23/2011 6:17:30 PM
Just like many listed on this wonderful website, my late father served in the 88th Infantry Division, 349th Regiment, Company C. I would be very interested in sharing a number of photographs that he took while they were training at Camp Gruber and then fighting in Italy.

from Heidi Verdon, recorded on 10/15/2011 3:06:46 AM
My Grandpa Clifford Grimmett was apart of the 313th medical Company C. 88th Inf. from Camp Gruber. I would love to know if anyone has information. Thank you

from f.gh, recorded on 10/7/2011 9:15:23 PM
i love history

from marlena hobson, recorded on 9/6/2011 11:25:02 PM
my father Victor Hobson was with the 88th div. blue Devils from Casablanca until the end. He was sent to Trieste after the war ended.

from Alessandro Cermasi, recorded on 7/1/2011 7:02:50 PM
Salve, complimenti per il sito. Sono un appassionato delle varie divisioni 88th, 91th, 34th che sono rimaste sulla linea gotica dove vivo. La 91th aveva il comado di divisione nel paesino dove abito, chiamato Pietramala. Sono un ricercatori di reperti con il metal detector, che ogni tanto mi soddisfa con qualche bel pezzo. Volevo chiederti se avevi altri filmati o foto sulla 91th o sulla 88th. Grazie e arrivederci.

from Renato Paccagnini, recorded on 5/8/2011 9:33:43 AM
Ciao. Molto bello vedere immagini storiche di un p
posto che conosco come casa mia. Complimenti.

P.S. Mia mamma è di Bigolino.

from Harold West, recorded on 4/19/2011 9:27:36 PM
I was in the 88th Blue Devil Division in Italy 1945-47. I would like to communicate with any soldiers from that period who were in Malian, Venice, Rome area. We also had a softball team of which I was a member. I would like to talk with any of the players on the team.

Thanks so much for the site and the opportunity to communicate with fellow soldiers of that time.

Staff Sargent Harold A. West

from Francesco, recorded on 2/19/2011 10:13:42 AM
Ciao, mi chiamo Francesco e sono un'appassionato della Seconda Guerra Mondiale e volevo farti i complimenti x il bel sito.
Sito che ho trovato molto interessante anche perchè essendo di Treviso, trovo sempre molto interessante conoscere eventi bellici avvenuti qui in zona.
Volevo chiederti se era possibile contattarci privatamente perchè vedo che hai molte conoscenze anche sulla 91° US Infantry Division ed io sono molto interessato a questa Divisione.
Alla prossima, continua così ed ancora complimenti

from luigi giacomo, recorded on 2/5/2011 8:45:17 PM
I was born in goritzia March 1947. My dad was stationed there till he had to go back to touch U.S. soil. You would lose citizenship when more then 5 years out of the country. He drove a tank.

from Bonnie, recorded on 12/20/2010 6:48:17 PM
My great uncle Frank Hiltz was in the 88th Infantry Division, the 351st Infantry Regiment. He'll be gone 30 years this coming March. I'm trying to find out more information on his life during WWII.

from Ricky Lonzar, recorded on 10/19/2010 8:09:32 AM
Complimenti per il sito. Vi invito a visitare www.freeterritorytrieste.com .
Inoltre chiunque abbia iformazion io foto di partite di FOOTBALL AMERICANO di quel periodo puo' inviarmi una mail a nefp@libero.it.

Whoever has informations, articles, programs or pictures of games of american football in the area of Trieste and/or Gorizia and/or Udine please contact me.

Saluti / best regards

Ricky Lonzar

from charles and son joe gilles, recorded on 10/2/2010 4:33:40 AM
dad was a sargent and tank comander in the 752nd he departed desert center by train to ny, to england. from there he fought in n.aferica tunis later he cross the meder. landing in italy, through rome to the areno river. he said he was lucky to be with such a great group and general patton.charles (dad) just turned 91. he is and has always been a wonderful loving dad to his 3 sons and faithful wife of 59 years. mon,s in heaven now. i,m so proud of dad and all the brave men of the 752nd.and have always wanted to meet some one from those times.i just set here and pop dad,s outfit and up you came ican give you better details if you like. god bless you all the families of the752nd co b.

from kal Rosenblun, recorded on 9/23/2010 6:46:00 PM
88th 349th 2nd battaion 45-47

I'M TRYING TO RECRUIT ALL OUTFITS TO CELEBRATE IN 2011 . lets party for three day and make this a united victory march. WE NEED HEADS TO TALK THIS OVER AND MAKE PLANS. iF INTERESTED PLEASE WRITE ME.

Kal Rosenblum
7350 N.w. 1ST
mARGHATE, fL,33063

the party will be in the northern part of italy

from Sharon Bachman, recorded on 9/13/2010 6:48:39 PM
My father Ted Baker served in the 88th Division 349th Infantry from 1945-1947

from George Newham (South Africa), recorded on 8/17/2010 8:29:37 AM

from ana sartori, recorded on 8/16/2010 2:59:33 PM
Moramos no Brasil e temos cidadania italiana. Queremos visitar Cornuda e saber se ainda temos parentes por lá. A origem da familia foi de Salvador Sartori e Angela Zancaner, que vieram para o Brasil em 1883. Da mesma familia constam os nomes de Domenico Settimo Sartori (1877) e Quirino Luigi Sartori(1873

from Carlos Roberto Marceu, recorded on 8/15/2010 9:32:40 PM
Tradução do português para italianoMostrar romanização
Io sono sceso dal Bolzon Domenica, cornuto nato emigrato in Brasile da quasi 65 anni, so Cornuda e ottenere la mia cittadinanza italiana, e future e finire i miei giorni torna alla radice terra, ma il governo italiano anche impegnativo molto in documenti e riconoscimento differito di un cittadino, ma ben presto ho intenzione di conoscere il luogo in cui mia nonna ha vissuto e abbandonato a un giorno venire in Brasile.

from Alessandro, recorded on 6/7/2010 7:42:37 PM
Ciao a tutti, complimenti per il sito e l'ottimo lavoro svolto!! io sono di Bardolino (Lago di Garda - Verona ), sto cercando foto e magari video delle truppe americane che sono passate qui sul lago, in particolare Bardolino!! chi avesse qualche notizia o qualche foto prego di contattarmi a questa email: alessandrozeni@tiscali.it
Saluti Alessandro

from Scott Grindstaff, recorded on 5/27/2010 5:20:51 AM
My father, Clarence Grindstaff, was in the 350th Inf. 88th division. He was one of the infantrymen who liberated the town of Vicenza. My father is still alive and lives in Rome, Georgia USA and he still shares with us the stories of those days in Italy. Thanks so much for researching and posting this history for the rest of us and he will be very interested to see the pictures and movies you have posted. Thanks for appreciating and honoring the ultimate sacrifice that many of his comrades made on that push to free Italy.

Scott Grindstaff
Cartersville, Georgia USA.

from massimo, recorded on 5/19/2010 12:18:18 PM
per caso ho trovato questo sito
bellissimo
grazie per aver messo ha disposizioni tutte le informative
massimo

from Gilberto Fabris, recorded on 5/18/2010 2:32:49 PM
Molto interessante

from Paula Bianchin, recorded on 5/11/2010 6:22:30 PM
My grandfather was born in Cornuda and I am trying to gather any information I can about the area. Thank you for this website and the work you have put into it.

from Angelo maotini, recorded on 4/26/2010 5:47:14 PM
una bellissima scoperta viaggiando su Internet, grazie

from ralph benjamin, recorded on 4/22/2010 3:03:33 PM
my uncle (Ralph H Baker) was a paraplegic veteran of the Italian campaign...(Co F, 349th Inf Reg, 88th Division)..he died on May 18, 1960 and is buried in Sunderland, Vermont.

anyone having photos of him on ship or in the campaign to share, it would be appreciated..

from louis musacchio, recorded on 4/21/2010 8:21:40 PM
My Dad also was in the 88th...blue devils...
He was a staff sargent name Louis Musacchio...any info ?photos would be greatly appeciated

from louis musacchio, recorded on 4/21/2010 8:14:59 PM
My Dad also was in the 88th...blue devils...
He was a staff sargent name Louis Musacchio...any info ?photos would be greatly aprreciated

from stefano piovesan, recorded on 4/7/2010 11:20:26 PM
Questo lavoro vale molto più di un Monumento; é la scoperta più emozionante che ho fatto in rete.
Complimenti e basta. Un fiero Cornudese.

from Ray Gregoire, recorded on 4/3/2010 6:56:45 AM
My dad Tony Gregoire was in the Italian campaignn with the Blue Angels sadly he died a few years ago at 91 years old.

Anyone remember him and has photos I'd love to see them.

from Fred Lincoln, recorded on 3/6/2010 12:21:14 AM
Very well done and I like the then and now photos. Probably our last reunion will be in Chicarg in September 2010. We are fading fast and soon will be no more. Many thanks for what you have done to honor the 88th.
Fred Lincoln
D/349th Regiment.

from Laura Salvucci, recorded on 2/24/2010 12:23:55 PM
Ho lasciato un messaggio poco fa per la ricerca del soldaato americano e volevo lasciare i mio indirizzo mail per avere notizie

Grazie anticipatamente

Laura

segreteria@aiadvertising.it

from Laura Salvucci, recorded on 2/24/2010 12:10:46 PM
Sto aiutando mio nonno a ritrovare un ex soldato americano che faceva parte dell'88th infantry division e che conobbe durente la seconda guerra mondiale a Roma. Dopo tante ricerche siamo riusciti ad avere oltre al nome esatto del combattente amenricano, anche il suo numero di matricola.
Qualcuno sa dirmi a chi posso rivolgermi per avere notizie di questa persona per dare una gioia a mio nonno che ormai è molto anziano?
Grazie

Laura

from giancarlo pizzuti, recorded on 2/22/2010 11:23:56 PM
Grande lavoro il tuo!! Sono anni che mi chiedo se esiste la possibilità di rintracciare delle immagini del mio paese (Olevano Romano, in provincia di Roma) girate dall'esercito americano che è passato di quì nei giorni della guerra ed ha liberato Olevano due giorni dopo la presa di Roma. Ora finalmente ho una traccia da seguire. Ti chiedo cortesemente se è possibile avere un tuo contatto per chiederti qualche indicazione sul modo di accedere al "US National Archives" ed alla società accreditata che ti ha aiutato nelle ricerche.
Grazie 1000! Giancarlo

from john, recorded on 1/31/2010 6:03:36 PM
Davide, excelent webpage. Movie and pictures showing then and now are great.

A short note for Luigiantonio and anyone else seeking ,ilitary records.

http://gravelocator.cem.va.gov/j2ee/servlet/NGL_v1 is a webpage that searches American military cemeteries. I looked for Thomas Critelli but did not find anything. If he is buried in a civilian cemetery then this webpage would not list him.

Your mother could obtain a complete copy of his military records from the following webpage. The reason I say your mother could obtain the records is only the next-of-kin (mother, father, son, daughter, brother, sister) can request your uncle's records from our government at http://www.archives.gov/veterans/evetrecs/index.html For person's who are not the direct next-of-kin records can be obtained from http://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records/standard-form-180.html

from Luigi Antonio Rotella, recorded on 1/16/2010 3:26:58 PM
Cari amici del forum,
Mi chiamo Luigi A. Rotella, abito nel comune di Gimigliano in provincia di Catanzaro, sto conducendo una ricerca storica sulla mia famiglia ed in particolare su mio zio (fratello di mia madre) nato negli USA il 15 agosto 1921. Lo zio prestò servizio militare nella seconda guerra mondiale nella 350 Infantry Regiment della 88th Infantry Division, il suo nome era Tommaso Critelli ed è caduto nel corso della seconda guerra mondiale precisamente il 3 ottobre 1944 proprio in Italia, ma è stato sepolto in USA. Vi scrivo per poter avere gentilmente altre notizie su di lui ed in particolare: dov’è morto precisamente, in quale compagnia era, quale grado ricopriva, quali decorazioni ha avuto, in quale battaglie ha partecipato in Italia e tutte le altre notizie possibili che potrete fornire. In alternativa, vi chiedo cortesemente d’indicarmi a quale Ufficio posso rivolgermi per avere tali informazioni.
Vi ringrazio in anticipo, per quello che potrete farmi avere, all’indirizzo e-mail: luigiantonio.rotella@poste.it

Dear friends of the forum,
My name is Luigi A. Rotella, lives in Italy in the country of Gimigliano in the Region of Calabria; one uncle of mine (my mother's brother) been born in USA August 15 th 1921, it was military in the 350 Infantry Regiment of the 88th Infantry Division, its name was Thomas Critelli and October 3 rd 1944 is deceased, he has perhaps been buried to Dambury in the State of the Connecticut. I write you to be able to have other news on him, and particularly: where dead is, in what company was, what degree covered, what decorations he has had and the whole other possible news that you have.
I thank in advance you, for what you can make to have me, to the address e-mail: luigiantonio.rotella@poste.it

from David Custer, recorded on 1/9/2010 3:08:05 PM
My father, Sgt Robert J. Custer, from Cincinnati, Ohio was in the 88th Infantry Division, 350th Regiment, 1st Battalion, Comapny 'C', 4th Platoon, weapons section, as a motar gunner from June of 1944 until November of 1945. He would have been in this area during the Po Valley campaign. Thank you for the execellent work and presention of your website. Since he has passed from us in 2006, I have been attempting to gather information to memorialize this military service as a part of our family history.

from kal rosenblum, recorded on 12/17/2009 7:53:56 PM
served hdq co 349th 2nd battalion 1945-1947 radio operator on morgan line. outpost 34 col Lyons i was radio operator.

kal rosenblum

from Ricky Daniels, recorded on 11/10/2009 10:00:07 PM
My uncle was member of the Bluedevils in 1943 and received a Purple Heart.I don't know the unit he was with.His name was James Edward Daniels from Tennessee

from fata, recorded on 11/1/2009 1:42:40 PM
ciao continui sempre a stupirmi quello che hai scritto e il lavoro che hai svolto e' una meraviglia!!!!!sei grande!!!!KISS

from Staff Sargent Harold West, recorded on 10/29/2009 8:28:07 PM
To Da Giovanni Premuti:

I will give this e-mail to my Father. I know he was stationed in Trieste. They had a very good softball team. He took many, many photos of the time he was there. I e-mail as soon as I can.

Nancy

from Charles Rittenberry, recorded on 10/24/2009 8:14:16 PM
My father fought in Italy in the 363rd company F
he was wounded at around Ponzalla He was in the 2d battalion company F. His name was Boyd Rittenberry he died november 1 1973. He was proud fo his service. Daddy always told us that.

from Joseph Scigliano, recorded on 10/13/2009 9:06:01 PM
I often think back to those war years when I was a small child and had no idea of the enormity of the conflict I had gone through without realizing the danger of war in my native land. I often wonder if any Americans went through my native town of Ronco all'Adige. I had no idea then that I would one day become an American. I have no idea what outfit might have gone through the area of my hometown. I think the bridge over the River Adige was blown up by the Germans and then rebuilt by the Americans according to my aunt whom I visited in '1971. I wish I knew if any American soldiers of the 88th ever went through my town of Ronco all'Adige. I think the bridge had to been near Albarado. Thank you.

from pieri, recorded on 10/7/2009 4:27:45 PM
Just looking at various messages in this guestbook. Makes me remember so well the years I spent in Italy from 1942 to 1952> I lived in Verona and Vicenza in those years now so long ago. I loved my Italian childhood and often recall it vividly. Ciao

from Bill Larsen, recorded on 9/28/2009 5:55:36 PM
With Co F 349th 88th Div Critically wounded near
Rome, Italy. May 22,1944 Nearly ninety. but active..

from giovanni premuti, recorded on 8/24/2009 12:17:50 PM
Iwoul'd to ask to the staff sargent Harold West,if he has been in Trieste in the '50 years.My uncle,Raffaele del Zio,plaied baseball in the yankee b.c.He was captain of the baseball team.Do you know where can I find photoes or other informations.Thank you
Giovanni Premuti

from E.B.Tapia, recorded on 5/20/2009 7:46:54 AM
Informative site. I am researching the 349th Infantry Regiment because my Uncle served in it and was wounded saving his comrades life during a 3-sided ambush his patrol walked into just south of the village of Carrara on December 30 1944. He never talked much about the war and the few details we have were few. He did mention that somewhere during the Italian campain that during another patrol his unit stumbled on a German unit in a bombed out building and were obviously drunk because they were all singing out loud. They posted some men at the windows and some at the end of the building where the Germans were sure to exit. At a given signal they started machine gunning and throwing grenades through the windows. Sure enough some Germans tried to exit through the doors at the end of the building. He never said how many of the enemy they killed that day, but he did say that the Americans posted at the exit doors were bayoneting so many Germans it looked like they were "pitching hay". If anyone knows anything about these incidents please leave message.

from E.B.Tapia, recorded on 5/20/2009 7:46:34 AM
Informative site. I am researching the 349th Infantry Regiment because my Uncle served in it and was wounded saving his comrades life during a 3-sided ambush his patrol walked into just south of the village of Carrara on December 30 1944. He never talked much about the war and the few details we have were few. He did mention that somewhere during the Italian campain that during another patrol his unit stumbled on a German unit in a bombed out building and were obviously drunk because they were all singing out loud. They posted some men at the windows and some at the end of the building where the Germans were sure to exit. At a given signal they started machine gunning and throwing grenades through the windows. Sure enough some Germans tried to exit through the doors at the end of the building. He never said how many of the enemy they killed that day, but he did say that the Americans posted at the exit doors were bayoneting so many Germans it looked like they were "pitching hay". If anyone knows anything about these incidents please leave message.

from fabio zoratto, recorded on 5/3/2009 2:04:26 AM
I am writing on behalf of my fiance's mother, Mrs. Edes Zoratto from Treviso in Italy who is searching for her father.

Mrs. Zoratto was born in Gorizia in 1946 to an Italian mother and a Father who was a soldier in the 88th Infantry Division, The Blue Devils.
When the war was over he returned to the states with the intention to send his new family shortly after him. It is unclear what happened but from what i understand the mother of Mrs Zoratto decided not to leave Italy. All contact was lost.
Mrs. Zoratto has only a photograph and a possible name; Tom Mack.
We realise that with so little information this is a difficult request, but in the hope that you may be able to help us, i am enclosing the photograph

Thank You for your kind attention
sincerly
Fabio Zoratto
freesound2004@libero.it

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/group.php?gid=40939974194&ref=mf

from Gary Decker, recorded on 4/30/2009 12:09:12 AM
Forgot to add my email for anyone who might contact me: lgdec@verizon.net

from Gary Decker, recorded on 4/30/2009 12:07:15 AM
My Father was Herbert C. Decker, 88th Infantry Division, Company "F", 349th Infantry Regiment. He was a Staff Sargent. He was awarded the Purple Heart (May of 44) and a Bronze Star (April 17 of 45 for his action near Furcoli, By Brigadier Generaly J. C. Fry. His nickname was Red, for his Red Hair. If there is anyone who knew my father during the war, I would be very happy to hear any stories or memories you might have of him. Thank You!

from Joseph Scigliano, recorded on 3/3/2009 7:40:03 PM
Ciao again, Davide!!!
It was Bob Holt who gave me your homepage account of the War so long ago. I want to insert my e-mail address for anyone who might want to contact me about my years in Ronco all'Adige during the war: JosephScigliano@att.net
I've read a few of the guest book signings and found them very interesting. I would have loved to have seen an American GI back then, but then I did not then know I would become an American myself. I loved my ten years as an Italian in Italy. I think back all the time about my years as a child in Italy. I loved Gallio and Schio so much. I was in the Casa della Providenza in Schio from '48 to '52 when on March of '52 my little sister and I flew from Rome to NY City. Thank you Davide...well done. Joe Scigliano 300 Stony Point Road, Space 211 Petaluma Ca. Usa 94952-1049 1 707 766-9417

from Giuseppe Luigi Pieri di Gallio, recorded on 3/3/2009 7:21:55 PM
Ciao Davide,
I love this story of the Allied liberation of my region of Veneto. I was born in March 1942 in a small town southeast of Verona on the banks of the Adige. I had no idea then of events surrounding my hometown. I was three years old when the war ended and I had no idea I one day become an American.
I think every day of the events of those years so long gone. I keep wondering what unit might have gone through my hometown, Ronco all'Adige, in 1945. I wish I could learn what one might have seen those days.
I would love to hear from anyone who might have heard about that area of mine. I came to the States in '52. I lived in Gallio and Schio before coming over here. Thank you. Let me know what you know. Grazie. I do write in Italian well enough now. Giuseppe

from gianna gorini, recorded on 2/25/2009 10:15:20 PM
mio padre si chiamava enzo gorini, era nato a chiari (Bs) ma trasferito con la famiglia a San Romano di Pisa, si unì all'esercito americano nella 88th divisione 351 fucilieri, nei dintorni di San Miniato (Pi) credo nell'agosto del 44, conosco i nomi di alcuni suoi superiori, Gen. Redevek e colonnello Mc. Crimmon. vorrei tanto saperne di più, purtroppo alla sua morte tutto il materiale in suo possesso è andato disperso. Se fosse a conoscenza di qualcosa mi farebbe piacere essere contattata.

from Federico, recorded on 10/17/2008 9:59:33 AM
Innanzitutto complimenti per il sito, graficamente ben fatto e dai contenuti molto approfonditi. Sono di Zero Branco ed oltre ad essere un grande appassionato di storia locale (soprattutto II GM) sono un rievocatore storico americano (cosiddetto reenactors).

Sarebbe bello, come avviene in molte parti d'Italia, rievocare la liberazione di Cornuda del 30 aprile. hai mai pensato ad un progetto del genere?

Se le interessa può contattarmi. Cordialmente

Federico Bertoldo

from ANNA, recorded on 9/14/2008 10:14:12 PM
complimenti per il lavoro,ho trovato il sito mentre facevo ricerche sull'origine della mia famiglia,mio bisnonno era originario di Cornuda,ma oltre la data di nascita e il nome non sono arrivata.Chissà se lei ne sa qualcosa: Pietro Ruggero Conte del Colle nato nel 1856 di Pietro e Sartori Paola. Grazie per le belle immagini e le notizie che mi hanno avvicinato al luogo dei miei avi e ancora complimenti Anna

from paolo gasparini, recorded on 8/22/2008 12:18:26 PM
Caro Davide,
il tuo lavoro è a dir poco eccellente. Sono anch'io un cultore della storia locale (sono di Bassano del Grappa) ho diverso materiale del periodo aprile '45 (mese in cui sono nato) e per questo forse il momento storico mi attrae.
Ho alcune foto dell'entrata degli americani in città e sono proprio quelli che poi passeranno per Cornuda. Se puoi darmi qualche dritta per contattare gli archivi americani mi piacerebbe trovare i nomi delle persone ritratte nelle foto.
Complimenti e grazie.
Paolo Gasparini

from Harold West, recorded on 7/4/2008 8:41:37 PM
I was in the 88th Blue Devil Division in Italy 1945-47. I would like to communicate with any soldiers from that period who were in Malian, Venice, Rome area. We also had a baseball team of which I was a member. I would like to talk with any of the players on the team.

Thanks so much for the site and the opportunity to communicate with fellow soldiers of that time.

Staff Sargent Harold A. West

from bernardini franco, recorded on 4/23/2008 8:58:49 AM
Sto cercando filmati e fotografie della zona compresa fra Carrara e Sarzana lungo la via Aurelia durante l'avanzata alleata e lo sfondamento della linea "Verde" (attuale confine fra Liguria e Toscana costituita da un "muraglione" antisbarco e anticarro che correva da Bocca di Magra lungo la spiaggia di Fiumaretta e Marinella e, parallela al torrente Parmignola, fino alle pendici delle Apuane, tutt'ora esistente) 15 km a nord della linea "Gotica", nei giorni 22 e 23 Aprile 1945. Complimentandomi, ringrazio anticipatamente. Franco cell.335/6860822

from Lanny Tonning, recorded on 4/17/2008 3:17:01 AM
My dad served in Italy from April 1944 until the end of the war. He was with the 805th Tank Destroyer Battalion. Although he did not speak much of the fighting, he often spoke warmly of Italy and the Italian people he came to know. Thanks for the website.

from Byron Ness, recorded on 3/29/2008 1:13:48 PM
Hi David, I just ran across your website and found it very interesting and well put together. My father served in Italy with the 88th Division. He started out at Naples and went to the Brenner Pass, after which he went to Trieste as a peace keeper for a while. Again, thank you for the great website.
Byron

from Michael Gorenflo, recorded on 3/20/2008 7:50:40 AM
My father, Harry Gorenflo (of Buffalo New York), was with the 3rd battalion of the 349th regiment, 88th division “Blue Devils” in Italy in 1945 - 1947. I am trying to learn what I can about his experience through the writings and good research of people like yourself. I really appreciate all of your hard work.
If anyone recognizes his name please contact me.

Gorenflo1@aol.com

from Marco, recorded on 2/17/2008 8:44:34 PM
Sono alla ricerca dei miei discendenti che vennero in Argentina e precisamente a Santa Fe nel 1886. I miei avi si chiamavano Rodolfo e io sono appassionato di genealogia e ho ricostruito la storia della mia famiglia.
Sarei grato a chi potesse aiutarmi.
Contattatemi al più presto Grazie ciao

from Ubaldo, recorded on 2/1/2008 1:32:32 PM
bene ottimo lavoro, la memoria da coltivare con passione è un bene inestimabile. E' necessario trasmettere valori veri, certi, alle nuove generazioni.
complimenti Ubaldo Baldi

from Steven Stanley, recorded on 1/10/2008 9:29:56 PM
Tech5 Leland Bishop served with Service Company 752nd Tank Bn,England,North Africa,Italy in WWII.
Would like to hear from anyone who served with him.
Leland is my Great Uncle,God Bless all you Great Men that served in the Italian Campaign.

from giorgio de luca, recorded on 1/8/2008 11:38:37 AM
ciao davide.. di nuovo io...
se ti interessa contattarmi per queste ricerche che intendo fare ti lascio la mia mail...
giorgio.dlcATinfinito.it
ciao a presto
giorgio

from giorgio de luca, recorded on 1/8/2008 7:45:34 AM
Ciao Davide, sono di Cornuda anch'io e ci conosciamo di vista! Abbiamo pochi anni di differenza.
Innanzitutto volevo complimentarmi per il tuo lavoro, la tua ricerca... riporta a noi una memoria storica che altrimenti rischierebbe di andare perduta!
Proprio in questo periodo mi sto avvicinando alla storia del nostro paese, alle tradizioni; sto cercando di documentarmi, di leggere quanto più possibile e ogni piccola scoperta è una grande meraviglia. Sto anche cercando di mettere in piedi una ricerca sulla valle di San Lorenzo, nucleo primario originario del nostro paese. Sarebbe bello riuscire a portare avanti questa cosa con altre persone interessate e, perchè no, creare il modo di conservare tutta questa memoria, magari proprio in un sito come il tuo.
A presto
giorgio de luca

from Lucio Mottes, recorded on 11/12/2007 12:33:17 AM
Veramente complimenti per lo splendido lavoro fatto!

from G.M., recorded on 11/10/2007 4:10:03 PM
Grazie da un colonello USAF per la sua ricerca e testimonianza. God bless our troups!

from Pia Jelinek, recorded on 11/2/2007 10:54:59 AM
Ciao a tutti, che bello avervi incontrato!
fatemi, per cortesia, chiarezza sull'esercito USA nella seconda guerra mondiale.
Sto facendo una traduzione dalla lingua ceca in italiano delle memorie di un americano che è appartenuto alla seconda divisione, si dice carristi o corazzata?
ma questa divisione di cosa fa parte, non ci capisco niente nelle suddivisioni:
Mi potreste per cortesia dare una mano?

from enrico foresti, recorded on 10/29/2007 6:16:30 PM
Di fronte ad una ricerca tanto seria ed impegnata non si può fare altro che lodare l'autore e ringraziarlo per l'amore mostrato al suo paese e alla sua terra.

from Margaret , recorded on 10/28/2007 1:20:55 AM
Wonderful website! My Dad served in the 36th Infantry Division, was badly wounded at San Pietro on Dec 9, 1944 and never saw combat again (Thank God). Thank you for your excellent research -- I love this site! Best regards, Maggie

from Corso Paolo Boccia, recorded on 9/24/2007 2:51:48 PM
Sito di prim'ordine nel suo genere. Veramente complimenti per una ricerca dettagliata ed appassionata.

http://www.goticatoscana.it

from anna, recorded on 9/15/2007 11:31:53 PM
ho sfogliato con interesse queste pagine,sto cercando di ricostruire la storia della mia famiglia dalla parte di mio papà e ho solo un indizio il luogo di nascita di mio bisnonno:Cornuda il cognome è stato modificato e sto cercando in tutti i modi di risalire alle mie origini. Complimenti per il suo levoro Anna da Sanremo

from Guidorzi Simone, recorded on 8/25/2007 10:12:38 AM
Voglio complimentarmi per il ben fatto sito internet ed in particolare per la bella veste grafica.

from delois nevills, recorded on 7/15/2007 3:02:30 AM
hello, my dad was 88th us army ,,,i'm looking for anyone that may know the name CHARLES J ROBINSON (nick name JESS OR JESSIE) EMAIL IS shamrockabc@yahoo.com =everyone sounds so wonderful on this site. thank you for taking time to read this message. delois

from DELOIS NEVILLS, recorded on 7/6/2007 4:19:57 PM
This is a wonderful place to hang out and read all day.Y0u have done a great job. Delois

from Massimo, recorded on 6/28/2007 7:10:09 PM
Complimenti !!!
Bellissimo sito, condivido la tua passione x la storia locale e cercando sul web notizie sul 752 tank btl del US ARMY ho trovato questa bella sorpresa.
Come sai l'88° e il 752 sono 'passati' anche da Vicenza -dove abito- subendo gravi perdite, prima di arrivare a Cornuda.
Ancora complimenti!
Ciao.
Massimo

from Massimo, recorded on 6/28/2007 7:02:48 PM

from Eliomar, recorded on 6/18/2007 4:37:39 PM
Hi my name is Eliomar I live in brasil.
I would like to talke and meet someone that live in cornuda.
Because my wife have some kindred that born is there.
Ola meu nome e Eliomar eu moro no brasil.
Eu gostaria de poder conhecer alguem que more em cornuda.
Minha espoza tem alguns parentes que naceram nesta cidade os bisavos.
Seria Para conversar e saber mais sobre esta cidade da italia.
Um abraço e ate mais.

from betty robinson, recorded on 6/13/2007 12:06:35 AM
hello, wonderful site.my dad was 88th, 1942/1945. I have a photo of my dad and 5 buddys with a 5 or 6 year old little Italian girl I would love to share the photo.bunnylane3331@yahoo.com

from Tiziana, recorded on 5/9/2007 11:19:38 PM
Ciao,
Mi piace molto questo sito, e non ti nascondo che anch'io sto effettuando una piccola ricerca in particolare di un soldato americano amico di mio nonno che mi piacerebbe trovarlo per far un grandissimo regalo a mio nonno;
Lo so che ti chiedo molto ma io ci provo, hai qualche notizia di quale reggimento o battaglione delle forze alleate americane che effettuavano servizio nell'ospedale a. cardarelli fu 23 Marzo a L'ecopa chiamato cosi a napoli nel gennaio del 1944

se puoi aiutarmi Fallo
Ciao

from Darlene Bush Tucker, recorded on 4/27/2007 7:29:12 PM
Like so many do, I never asked questions about my uncle till too late; now he is long dead, and my aging mother, his sister, remembers next to nothing. Not even sure if he was U.S. Army or U.S. Marine, but know that he was shot in the chest near his heart fighting at River Po, Po Rover? ... and crawled into an Italian church and could hear the sounds of "Americano" being yelled outside as the enemy sought him? ... He awoke next in a hospital, lived a good, productive life with his family though with problems with damaged heart valves, I think. I am just trying to learn, belatedly, about the place where he was. Thanks for your site; what a thoughtful thing to create.

from Carlo - Padova, recorded on 4/27/2007 4:37:27 PM
Complimenti per l'ottima ricerca e il prezioso lavoro.
E' un modo straordinario per onorare la memoria di quanti si batterono per la libertà di tutti.

Carlo

from piero orlandi, recorded on 4/13/2007 5:57:04 PM
ho letto con grande interesse il sito e visionato il filmato allegato che completa perfettamente il racconto degli avvenimenti tragici che purtroppo oggi pochi ricordano con la giusta prospettiva storica.

BRAVO

from walter d pearson, recorded on 3/26/2007 2:10:40 PM
Hi
I served in the 88th div F-351
I never could understand how the Italian people all seemed to love us as liberators rather than as conquerors. However I always appreciated their warmth and generosity each time we took a town or even later on my post war visits.

from Zanini Alessandro, recorded on 3/25/2007 10:16:38 AM
Complimenti a Davide Bedin

A seguito dei racconti diretti di mio padre Natalino e delle mie zie, che hanno vissuto quei momenti proprio in piazza di Cornuda, vedere un filmato realmente come questo è stata una vera emozione ed interesse per approffondire di più gli avvenimenti, anche perchè questa giornata del 30 aprile ha coivolto drammaticamente la mia famiglia.
Di nuovo complimenti per un buon prosegumento della tue ricerche.
Zanini Alessandro ,nipote del partigiano Zanini Alessandro Medaglia d'Oro ,caduto a Cornuda il 30 Aprile 1945.

from Jeanette Sasiela, recorded on 3/15/2007 2:36:05 PM
Great site was trying to fine out something about the 349 inf. my brother was killed in the battle of Volteria,he is buried in Italy in Florence cementery,which I have visited it is really well kept.I will go further in to the site when I have more time thanks ,Jeanette

from Carla Garugli, Assessore alla Cultura -Cornuda, recorded on 3/15/2007 1:49:58 AM
Il 24 marzo 2007 inaugureremo qui a Cornuda la mostra fotografica della Provincia di Treviso "La seconda guerra mondiale e la resistenza nel trevigiano".Dovrebbe essere una soddisfazione per i cornudesi visitarla, visto che c'è una sezione dedicata al nostro paese e che anche tu hai contribuito fornendo notizie e materiale (sei citato anche nella guida). Leggere i messaggi che i visitatori ti inviano, anche dal paese, apre il cuore: evidentemente c'è ancora qualcuno che capisce che il tuo lavoro è donato gratuitamente per sincera passione. Ti aspetto nei prossimi giorni quando incontreremo i ragazzi della scuola,dovremo cercare di farli incuriosire su quanto sia interessante la ricerca storica, altro che Indiana Jones...o proprio come lui! A proposito, bella la nuova pagina sul metodo.
Ciao.

from Alessandro D'Agostino, recorded on 3/13/2007 12:26:12 PM
Traduco il mio messaggio di ieri: vivo a Minturno, in provincia di Latina, e precisamente nella frazione di Pulcherini che venne liberata dal 349° reggimento il 14 maggio 1944. Era per i fanti la loro prima azione di combattimento in Italia, venendo attivati dalla riserva in retrovia per assistere il 351° che si trovava in grande difficoltà in una battaglia senza fine tra 11 e 14 maggio, importante per lo sfondamento della Linea Gustav. In particolare il 1° battaglione del 349° reggimento liberò Pulcherini, e giacché è stato il primo paese da loro liberato in Italia ritengo verosimile che qualche soldato abbia qualche foto di quel giorno e del mio paese (raso al suolo).; altrimenti sto cercando di capire dove reperire le foto del 349°, siano esse private o istituzionali.
Infine stiamo vedendo di far fare un monumento ai caduti nella mia frazione, che ricordi come quell'azione del 349° di fatto portò la liberazione di Minturno e sarebbe gradito avere la presenza di qualche veterano che era qui quel 14 maggio 1944.
Ringrazio e saluto tutti.
Alessandro D'Agostino
dagostino@meteoam.it

from Alessandro D'Agostino, recorded on 3/12/2007 1:51:57 PM
Dear all,
I am an Italian officer (Lt. Col. of Italian Air Force) living in Pulcherini (Municipality of Minturno, provine of Latina), a small village that was freed by 1st Battalion of 349th Regiment on 14th May 1944 after a bloody battle, see :
“Small Unit actions” http://www.army.mil/cmh-pg/books/wwii/smallunit/smallunit-smi.htm#map9
and “History of the 88th Blue Devil Division based on booklet entitled We were there, From Gruber to the Brenner Pass”.. http://members.aol.com/ItalyWW2/Division88.htm

I am searching for pictures of those days. In http://www.337thinfantry.net/Rome/AlbumIndex2.html
there are only pictures of Santa Maria Infante and Minturno, but none of Pulcherini.
So please, especially amongst those of the 1st Battalion of 349th Regiment in service on 14th May 1944, where can I find pictures, both institutional or private, of Pulcherini at that time? This is the first day of action for 349th Infantry, replacing 351st after their very strong 3-days fight during the Spring Offensive, so there MUST be some pictures by some of those who had freed their first village!
Moreover, it could be that we shall make and inaugurate a monument to the fallen ones this year, or May 2008 at the most, and I need a contact to organize invitations for veterans and, possibly, today's soldiers in service. They could visit places were the 349th made their first and the 351st their biggest efforts.
Please help me in this, any suggestion will be appreciated.
Sincerely
Alessandro D'Agostino (Alex)
my e-mail:
dagostino@meteoam.it

p.s. Davide: il tuo sito è fatto davvero in modo chiarissimo e completo, complimenti

from Col(ret) Hank Adams, recorded on 2/27/2007 3:41:22 AM
Interesting site. You have done a great job in putting it together. I didn't arrive in the Venezia Giulia until August 1946 but I remember the area well. After the 88th Infantry disbanded I was one of the 5000 Americans sent to Trieste. I do think the Brits and their commonwealth troops deserve some attention on this site. They were a great bunch and , as someone once said, we were only divided by a common language. I've returned only once but I intend to come back again befor I expire.

Ciao,

Enrico Adami(Henry Adams in English)

from Grover LHamm, recorded on 2/26/2007 12:17:28 AM
Thank you very much for a job well done. I was a member of the 88th in Italy. I joined the 88th on July 22,1942 in Oklahoma and was with the First Battalion, 349th Regiment all the way on the Long Walk until August 1945.

from MArisa Pisan, recorded on 2/10/2007 10:40:32 AM
Complimenti, complimenti davvero. Finalmente adesso so molte più cose sulla Mia Cornuda. Avete fatto un lavoro bellissimo. Semplice, comprensibile da tutti, anche ben dettagliato.
Grazie e un augurio per continuare a reperire altro materiale interessante.
Marisa

from claudio cavedon, recorded on 2/5/2007 5:07:58 PM
ciao Davide,
sei ancora tu a farmi inaugurare un registro visite fantascientifico.
Complimenti per il lavoro, che é stato senz'altro anche divertente.
Con ammirazione leggermente invidiosa, alla prossima occasione che aspetto impaziente.

from paola gasparetto, recorded on 10/26/2006 11:43:56 AM
garzie e complimenti per la passione con cui riesci a fare questi lavori

from Tony, recorded on 10/7/2006 5:50:02 PM
Hello

Very interesting site. My mother was born in Cornuda around the time of the war and lived there until the mid 70's. I have been back to visit Italy a few times and her 2 sisters still live on the land where my mom grew up. When we would go for walks, we would often come across shells and other remnants from the war and always wanted to learn more about what had transpired there a long time ago.

from Rosario Forestieri, recorded on 9/22/2006 8:57:24 AM
Ho letto con molto interesse quanto riportato nel sito, e faccio i miei complimenti all'autore.
E' un grosso impegno raccogliere tante notizie e testimonianze di eventi così importanti che devono essere ricordati dalle vecchie generazioni ma contemporaneamente fatte conoscere ai giovani perchè possano apprezzare quel grande bene che è la libertà.
Nella scuola si passano tante ore a studiare storia antica (che è sempre importante), e spesso non c'è tempo alla fine dell'anno, per studiare la storia del secolo scorso. A mio parere sarebbe auspicabile una revisione dei programmi scolastici con una ridistribuzione delle ore dedicate alle varie epoche, dedicando una maggiore attenzione anche agli eventi storici locali.

from giampaolo rana, recorded on 9/19/2006 9:06:38 PM
complimenti per il bellissimo sito

abito a Cologna Veneta ( tra l'altro citata nel
tuo resoconto ) in provincia di Verona.Ho 49 anni e da sempre mi interesso dei fatti accaduti in quel lontano periodo.
Mia madre ,che li ha vissuti in prima persona , mi racconta ancora la paura di quei giorni tumultuosi e la gioia per lo scampato pericolo una volta passata la bufera.
Mi piacerebbe approfondire le fasi della liberazione del mio paese da parte della 91° div.
americana e rintracciare foto e documentazione
magari provenienti da qualche reduce.

grazie e complimenti ancora

from daniele guiotto, recorded on 9/8/2006 5:25:53 PM
Sono un caeranese, appassionato soprattutto delle vicende della prima guerra mondiale. Non avevo mai visto un sito così interessante, da poter "toccare" con gli occhi, ciò che successe in quell'epoca, finora trasmessami dai racconti dei miei genitori. Complimenti vivissimi, anche per l'emozione che mi ha notevolmente coinvolto.
E grazie, soprattutto per aver lavorato così pazientemente per il mantenimento di tale preziosa testimonianza.

from Steve Cole, recorded on 9/5/2006 3:40:23 AM
Hi, I enjoyed the combat footage. A researched in Italy had sent me a good video clip of Americans entering Verona(maybe?). There is not much history on the campaign during the last days of the war. I believe the American units were as confused as the German units as to where they were and where they were going.
It is really great to see this footage and match it with the current locations. I also like the map you have made.
If I can be of any assistance in your research, please contact me.

Steve Cole
webmaster for www.custermen.com
Website for the 85th "Custer" Division
and the Italian Campaign of WW2(1944-45)

from Maurizio Venturoli, recorded on 8/11/2006 5:42:55 PM
Sono stato a Cornuda per un paio di giorni, ospite di un amico,e per.. saperne di piu' ho trovato il sito. Bravo, anzi bravissimo!!!
Banale a dirsi, ma chi non conosce o non ricorda
il dolore da cui e'nata la nostra libertà non sarà mai in grado di apprezzarla.
Complimenti Vivissimo e un abbraccio a tutta Cornuda.

M.Venturoli
Settimo Milanese

from Giancarlo, recorded on 7/31/2006 4:22:52 PM
Giancarlo TAGLIATI
10080 San Benigno Canavese
Via Olivetti n°20 Torino Italy
Tele/fax ++39(011) 988 78 11
cell 0335-5718799

e-mail tagliati.g@virgilio.it

Dear sire :

I am looking for any kind of information concerning with the Liberation ( 27th Aprile 1945 ) in Italy of my native village Cavarzere. From August 1944 to end April 1945 was more than 260 Allied Forces bombardments by 12th 15th Air Force- 319th , 485th and other BG.

I would like to gather aerial photos /videos / B-26 Marauder, Liberators, aircrafts about the bombing of Cavarzere RR & Road Bridges over Adige River. Cavarzere is located 40 km from Venice between Rivers PO and Adige, in the Po Valley. Also personal records,logs, diaries, memoires, pictures of Vets and their families would also be appreciated.

I am having an exhibition for this day of Liberation and would like to remember the special contribution of the Allied Army, in collaboration with the City Council of Cavarzere.

I appreciated your time and attention to this request and thank you for your consideration..

Sincerely,

Giancarlo Tagliati

from Diego Parolin, recorded on 7/27/2006 4:29:04 PM
Ciao Davide,
mi sono imbattuto per caso in questo sito, e devo farti veramente i complimenti.
Tutto molto bello, interessante e organizzato molto bene. Complimenti anche per come sei riuscito a recuperare le varie informazioni: accedere agli archivi americani non credo sia cosa alla portata di tutti.
Come sempre, sei un'enesauribile fonte di risorse, non capirò mai come fai a fare tutte queste cose :-)

Un abbraccio, ciao!

from Dino, recorded on 7/8/2006 3:57:49 PM
Salve,
ho visto il sito bravo, per avere avutol'idea ma sopratutto l'interesse per farlo.
Io sono nato nell'immediato dopoguerra e mio padre ora novantenne mi ha sempre raccontato con enfasi "come sapevano solo i nostri vecchi raccontare le loro storie" dell'arrivo dei soldati Americani dalla Via Feltrina verso Cornuda e dei soldati Tedeschi che si ritiravano " magari anche ingigantendo un po' anche la realtà".
Una cosa mi ha colpito però, il fatto "del nido di mitragliatrici tedesche in Via delle Battaglie" mio padre mi ha sempre raccontato che erano all'altezza della Via Caodevilla/Feltrina ma però oltre il Giaron verso la Valle.
Continuare!!! Perchè come diceva qualcuno chi non ricorda il passato non ha futuro.
Saluti
Dino

from John Robinson, recorded on 5/14/2006 7:37:09 AM
My email is coinhead2@cox.net This ring has alot of history to, Need to learn more.

from John Robinson, recorded on 5/14/2006 7:27:42 AM
I live here in Oklahoma and metal detect as a hobby. From the research I've done so far, I was able to learn that the 88th Infantry Division trained at Camp Gruber here in Oklahoma, Then went on to Casablanca. I found a silver ring dated 1943 with Casablanca on it. Can anyone tell me if these rings were issued to troops during that campaign? Could this ring be from the Avalon Project Casablanca Conference in 12 FEB, 1943. Anyone with any info can email me, I'll even send a PIC if needed. Thank you John in Oklahoma.

from Renato Gallina, recorded on 5/13/2006 10:12:52 AM

Molto Bravo complimenti per il grande lavoro fatto è veramente molto bello che qualcuno abbia ricostruito in maniera cosi completa parte della storia di Cornuda.
Sarebbe bello poter completare l'opera con il periodo della ricostruzione.
Un ringraziamento da parte di un concittadino che ama il proprio paese.
Renato Gallina

from lodovica banchieri, recorded on 4/30/2006 10:25:16 AM
anch'io per molti anni ho scritto nel mio indirizzo "Via 30 Aprile" ed oggi 30 aprile ho aperto il sito che ne ricorda l'intestazione; voglio ringraziare tutti coloro che con lavoro silenzioso e faticoso di ricerca ci aiutano a conoscere da dove veniamo

from Giuseppe Luigi Pieri, recorded on 4/17/2006 5:50:43 PM
Hi Davide,
I was born in 1942 across the Adige River from Alberado all'Adige. I hear the Germans blew up the bridge and the Americans rebuilt it. Anyway I wish I could remember what I might have witnessed. I was born at the hospital in Ronco all"Adige in March. I was swept down the creek and some woman who ran a bar pulled me out by my hair she told me in 1971. We left Ronco all'Adige in '47 and went to a town called Gallio near Asiago. In 1948 in the fall I guess I ended up in the Casa della Providenza and in 1952 was sent to America by the bishop of Vicenza who I had met some months or years earlier. I still have that picture of the group and bishop with me in it. I will try to send it you if I can figure out how to do that. Thank you. I love your website, Davide. Giuseppe

from CHUC HAUT, recorded on 4/16/2006 8:58:57 PM
I was in the 349th Infantry reg't I&R platoon 88th div.
This is one of the best webb sites I have seen YOU done a very good job,every detail very good.
CHUCK

from zia giuliana, recorded on 4/10/2006 9:26:59 AM
bellissimo lavoro, bravo!

from Giuseppe Luigi Pieri, recorded on 4/9/2006 12:52:06 PM
Davide,
Really nice web page. I was born in a town called Ronco all'Adige (near San Bonifacio) in 1942, March 14. I was then 3 when the war ended. I left Italy in 1952 and have been here since except for six months in '71. I visited Ronco all'Adige and my aunt that had raised me during the war told of how the German Army blew the bridge there over the Adige and many drove their horses into the river trying to escape the advancing American Army. I would like to know more. I 'lost' my family and was orphaned in 1948 and made my way to the States. Thank you for your site, Davide! Giuseppe

from Patrick Skelly, recorded on 3/23/2006 3:09:57 PM
I am pleased to have found your excellent website, and to have featured it as the 'Website of the Week' at Military History Network, http://www.milhist.net

from Lara, recorded on 3/19/2006 3:41:34 PM
Non crdevo che fosse così bella la storia

from Lol, recorded on 3/19/2006 3:40:05 PM
Era tanto che cercavo un sito così!

from Claudio Biscarini, recorded on 2/26/2006 7:04:48 AM
Caro bedin. Complimenti vivissimi. Il sito è estremamente interessante.Come membro onorario della 88a Divisione Fanteria Blue Devils,e come ricercatore, non posso che congratularmi per il materiale che ho visto e per l'organizzazione del sito. Cordialmente,Biscarini

from Dan O'Neill, recorded on 2/14/2006 7:05:31 PM
Nice site. My father, Dan Sr., was a gunner on a sherman tank in the 752nd tank battalion, Co B which fought along side the 88th. He would have been proud that you are honoring those wonderful guys of that generation.

Thanks again, Dan

from Patrick Logan, recorded on 1/30/2006 8:18:53 AM
Dear Mr. Bedin,

Thank you for your excellent website. I am in the process of writing a book about my father, Charles Logan, who was a Blue Devil in the 349th regiment. I have the letters that he wrote to my mother from Morocco to Lake Garda. He took many photographs and I have been in contact with historian Col. Lorenzo Raspanti, who has been very helpful in identifying photograph locations in the area between Florence and Bologna.
In the summer of 1945, my father was stationed at the Hotel Mayer & Splendid - Desenzano Del Garda. While he was there, he befriended the children of the hotel’s barber. I have written to the hotel to ask if they could help me to locate these “children”, but I received no reply. Do you have any contacts in any historical societies that could help me to locate them? The boy’s name is Georgio and the girl’s name is perhaps Adla.
My wife and I hope to visit Italy this year, and perhaps we will be able to visit Cornuda. Thank you again for your website.

from Bob Holt, recorded on 10/23/2005 12:45:44 AM
Congratulations on your terrific website, Davide! Your unique approach clearly describes the fighting that occurred in Italy. The detailed account of the fighting in Cornuda is outstanding. I especially like the way you interspersed modern day photos into the US Signal Corps film to illustrate what these places look like today. Very well done!

Bob Holt
http://www.752ndtank.com

from Piergiorgio Barbisan, recorded on 9/28/2005 10:19:20 PM
Complimenti a Davide! Il tuo lavoro è interessantissimo. Lo porterò a conoscenza di mia madre (Gina Bedin, classe 1924)che, nata e cresciuta a Cornuda, conserva ancora molti lucidi ricordi di quel tempo. Piergiorgio.

from ANGELO RODOLFO GASPERIN, recorded on 8/30/2005 11:55:17 AM
Eg. Sig. Bedin:
Sono Angelo Rodolfo Gasperín, sono nato a Santa Fe (Argentina)nel anno 1953. Sono figlio di Angelo Gasperín, nato a Castelcucco il 8 agosto 1900 che ha visuto tra Crocietta e Corduna. Grande amico della famiglia Cinel, Roccon e Truccolo. Giusto domenica scorsa mi sono informato della morte del mio amico Federico Truccolo, industriale di settoli e penneli. Con la mia mamma siamo stati a Cornuda nel anno 1985. Abbiamo pasati veramente indimendicabili momenti felici accanto ai nostri amici e guardiamo nello profondo del cuore il carino riccordo di Cornua come cittá, come luogo di tantissimi imprenditori e lavoratori ma ancora sentiamo la cordialitá della gente... Rimane anche con noi la volte che siamo stati della Madonna di Rocca e nel Monte Tomba, luogo della grande battaglia... Aproffito l´ocassione per salutare tutta la popolazione di Cornuda e dei contorni, specialmente la famiglia di María, Bruno e Annamaria Truccolo... Tante grazie a lei per questo messaggio... Se Dio vuole forze un domani avremo la possibilitá di trovarci... Arrivederla

Angelo Rodolfo Gasperin
Passaggio Maipú 3318
3000 Santa Fe (Argentina)
phono 0054-342-4521130
E-mail: agasperin@libero.it
agasperin@yahoo.com

PD: ... una piccola domanda. Lei ha qualche famigliaritá con Bedin, l´ex calciatore della grandissima squadra dell´Internazionale di Milano tra gli anni 1964 e 1965?

from Piero Rumor, recorded on 6/21/2005 7:28:46 PM
Confermo l'impressione che ho avuto "sfogliando" il D-Day. Spero che tanti, molti giovani abbiano la voglia di leggere, comprendere e cercare nelle pieghe della storia. Un popolo che non ricorda è destinato alla rovina...
Bravo e buon lavoro!

from Jenny De Paoli (m. Walker), recorded on 5/19/2005 1:00:29 PM
Dear Davide
Thank you for a fascinating story about the war in Cornuda. My mother, Albina Comazzetto, lived in Cornuda until 1953 when she came to Australia (Eugenio Comazzetto was her brother). She used to tell my brother and I stories of the German soldiers in her town during the war. Unfortunately, she died 10 years ago, but she would have found your story very interesting. I always feel Cornuda is my second home, so I love to read any stories about it. You have done a wonderful job, congratulazioni.
Auguri,
Jenny De Paoli (Walker)

from Richard Griffiths, recorded on 5/18/2005 10:49:39 AM
I'm one of the two managers of the "Old Soldiers Home" Web Site..... That you joined yesterday....

Nice site, but you make it look like only the American troops that were involved. Trieste itself was captured by the New Zealanders ....Then the Trieste area was protected until 1954 by a combined force of Americans (TRUST ) and British (BETFOR )There were at any given time, 5,000 trops from BOTH these countries....

Good Luck !

from Andrea, recorded on 5/16/2005 2:03:37 PM
Complimenti Davide, ogni volta che vedo una delle tue realizzazioni, mi rendo conto di come sia cambiato il ragazzino che mi fronteggiava con i suoi soldatini (già da allora disposti con un certo criterio strategico, devo ammettere!); ora lavoriamo, siamo sposati, e le nostre piccole "battaglie" le combattiamo nella vita di tutti i giorni, con un pizzico di nostalgia per quei pomeriggi passati tra fortini di sabbia e aerei; di plastica, sì, ma che nella nostra immaginazione volavano davvero...
Amico mio, speriamo che lavori come il tuo, nella loro piacevole veste grafica e vibrante autenticità storiografica, servano per preservare la memoria storica di eventi sì tragici, ma che grazie al sacrificio di molti eroi, portarono finalmente la luce della speranza nel cuore dei popoli, e tra essi i nostri avi.
Ciao, caro vecchio Davide.

from Pier Paolo Benedetti, recorded on 5/7/2005 8:24:28 PM
Complimenti per il tuo lavoro. Bello e prezioso. La memoria, orientata dalla speranza, è elemento essenziale per la costruzione di una vita migliore per tutti.

from Fabris Gabrielle, recorded on 5/5/2005 7:44:17 PM
Complimenti per questo bel lavoro.
Se vuole altre foto di questo 30 aprile io posso fornirle, oppure indicare dove reperirle.

from sam studstill, recorded on 5/5/2005 12:38:48 AM
Eo no comprende Italiano so I will write in English.Great work and I can vouch for the accuracy of much of the events as I was there as a member of the 88th Inf although I did not go through Cornuda myself.It is good to know that the efforts we American soldiers made are appreciated
Sam, USA

from Alberto Grosso Nicolin, recorded on 4/25/2005 6:18:13 PM
Complimenti per questo sito che, assieme a quello dedicato al D-Day in Normandia, offre la possibilità di vedere la storia in modo diverso da quello classico dei libri scolastici.
Spero quindi che questo tuo lavoro possa essere utilizzato proprio dagli insegnati e che la memoria per quei tragici eventi resti viva anche nelle generazioni più giovani, che troppo spesso ignorano la propria storia.
Grazie, Alberto.

from Adriano Spader, recorded on 4/25/2005 10:38:10 AM
Grazie per il bellissimo lavoro che hai fatto. Ho potuto conoscere aspetti importanti della liberazione di Cornuda e della nostra zona che non conoscevo e che, dopo sessant'anni, era ora fossero messi alla conoscenza di tutti, in particolare delle nuove generazioni, perché aprezzino la libertà di cui godono e capiscano quanto sia il frutto di molti che si sono sacrificati.

from Enrico Moretto, recorded on 4/22/2005 2:08:18 PM
Gran bel lavoro. Interessante ed istruttivo.
Complimenti!

from antonio gallina, recorded on 4/19/2005 9:56:06 PM
complimenti per queste pagine web. è un lavoro molto chiaro e ben documentato.

from Gabriele D'Onufrio, recorded on 4/19/2005 7:13:27 PM
Bellissimo e molto competente.
Ho apprezzato in particolar modo il confronto visuale fra l'odierna realtà e le immagini storiche in archivio.

Comunque si nota proprio la tua passione per questi argomenti, per la ricerca e la conoscenza ... e ne vieni in qualche modo contagiato.

"CHI CONTROLLA IL PASSATO
CONTROLLA IL FUTURO,
CHI CONTROLLA IL PRESENTE
CONTROLLA IL PASSATO."
(G. ORWELL)

from Carla Garugli, recorded on 4/18/2005 11:54:47 PM
Anche per questo lavoro devo farti i complimenti.
Spero che chi leggerà saprà cogliere la profonda passione che ti spinge a conservare i ricordi e indagare le tue radici.
I tuoi nonni, che hanno vissuto la tragedia della guerra, sarebbero felici di leggerti.
Carla Garugli, tua madre.

from Ferdinando, recorded on 4/14/2005 9:14:44 PM
ciao Davide
ho letto con molto interesse .
Bravo hai fatto un grande lavoro di ricerca.
L'Assessore alla Cultura di Cornuda ti sarà riconoscente.
Saluti alla famiglia
Ferdinando

from Silvia, recorded on 4/4/2005 3:29:40 PM
Ciao,
questa volta sono la prima!
Lo so che non è molto corretto visto che pochi sanno che il sito è on-line, ma spero che lo apprezzi comunque!
Complimenti per il lavoro che hai fatto, è molto bello e interessante, bravo!
Ti amo,
Silvia

The battle of Cornuda

Combat film

Pictures

Liberators