Monte Cassino Commemorative Cross
The Monte Cassino Commemorative Cross is a commemorative medal awarded to all soldiers of the Polish II Corps who fought in the battle of Monte Cassino and the battles for Piedimonte and Passo Corno. After the capture of Monte Cassino in May 1944, the Polish government-in-exile created a campaign cross to commemorate the role of the Polish II Corps in capturing this strategic point, which had long blocked the Allied advance up the Italian peninsula.
Monte Cassino Commemorative Cross
The Battle of Monte Cassino, also known as the Battle for Rome, was a series of four military assaults by the Allies against German forces in Italy during the Italian Campaign of World War II. The objective was to break through the Winter Line and facilitate an advance towards Rome.
Polish soldiers inside the ruined Monte Cassino monastery
German paratroopers from the 3rd FJR "Green Devils" taking part in the battles for Monte Cassino, March 1944
British Royal Engineers of the 46th Infantry Division cross the Garigliano river, 19 January 1944
A German tank crew attempts to restore their Panzer IV's mobility after battle damage inflicted during the fighting