Hello Everyone, I have been given some research material by WW2 veteran who served in Africa and the Italian campaign, and I'm hoping someone may be able to help me fill in the blanks. Private Arthur Pickard Service number: 4698942 5th Para B Company Arthur was deployed from Africa to Italy in 1943. He was involved in the second wave of troops landing on the east coast of mainland Italy. His was first attached to the 4th Indian, later followed by time with the New Zealand unit. I do know Arthur also spent time in the Black Watch, and he was severely injured and spent time in a Para hospital in Italy between 43-44 when he was caught up in an explosion when destroying a railway, but where this happened is a little vague. If anyone can help I would be grateful.
Good morning Sandra, For a very good overview (from a very young junior officer) of The 2nd Independent Parachute Brigade (4th, 5th, 6th Parachute Battalions) try and obtain (local library?) a copy of "Oft in Danger" by Jonathon Riley. Mentions of what the 5th Parachute Battalion was up to twixt pages 39 to 106 (in relation to the book's main focus and where the (then) junior officer served) It will give you a good ground/birds eye view of the Italian campaign from a fighting soldier's point of view. Good luck with all. Kind regards, always, Jim.
From the above source. It is an excellent work. Please see depiction of "railway". Is this maybe related to Private Arthur Pickard's railway? Kind regards, always, Jim.
