A local military member is back from commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Italian Campaign during the Second World War.

Sgt Terry Gibbins, Wing Chief Warrant Officer’s Assistant, 22 Wing CFB North Bay, was part of a contingent of more than 180 Canadian Armed Forces members who took park in various ceremonies.

“It was a very humbling experience, one in which I will never forget,” says Sgt Gibbons. “To be able to commemorate the Italian Campaign where so many Canadians played a significant role and then to stand with Veterans who fought in the campaign, along with the Italian community who were freed by the military effort was truly amazing.”

Officials say the Italian Campaign was a grueling military effort for Canada and its allies during the Second World War.

96,000 Canadians served in the Italian Campaign with Canadian military members playing a crucial role

Casualties totalled more than 26,000.

Nearly 6,000 Canadians died.

Events and ceremonies the Canadian Armed Forces contingent took part in:
– November 28 – Ceremony at Agira War Cemetery;
– November 30 – Ceremony at Pontecorvo, Canadian Plaque and Cassino War Cemetery visit;
– December 2 – Ceremony at Price of Peace Monument and visit Moro River Canadian War Cemetery;
– December 4 – March and Ceremony at the Town Square of Ravenna and ceremony at Ravenna War Cemetery; and
– December 5 – Meet and Greet with students at Ravenna.

 

Photo credit: Sergeant Vincent Carbonneau

Filed under: 22 Wing CFB North Bay