Operation Avalanche Image Gallery
From the Pre-Invasion Build-up Through the Beach Landings
British General John L. Hawksworth, commander of the British 46th Infantry Division, and Rear Admiral Richard L. Conolly, USN, aboard USS Biscayne (AVP-11), one the Operation Avalanche amphibious force command ships, on 6 September 1943, three days before the Salerno landings. Note the words “LEAD THE TARGET” stencilled on the 20-mm gun shield (80-G-82331).
Another view of U.S. 45th Infantry Division troops and vehicles being loaded on LSTs and LCIs in Palermo in preparation for the Salerno invasion. Identifiable ships are (left to right): HMS LST-425, USS LCI -235, USS LCI -95, and USS LCI -220. Note barrage balloon at left, the still-large number of bolt-action Springfield rifles present, and African American troops aboard LCI-220 (SC-181098).
A U.S. Navy destroyer lays a smoke screen during a red alert for air attack off the Salerno invasion beaches. Photographed from the port bridge wing of USS Philadelphia (CL-41). Note manned and ready 20- and 40-mm guns on Philadelphia, and elevated fire control radar antenna and 5-inch/38-caliber guns on the destroyer (80-G-83243).
Published: Fri May 10 11:50:21 EDT 2019