Campobasso, 11-14 October 1943
By Second Lieutenant Joshua Bald
The 48th Highlanders of Canada earned distinction for their role in the battle for Campobasso, “the wedding cake,” a strategically vital city in central Italy during the Italian Campaign. As part of the 1st Canadian Infantry Division, the Highlanders faced rugged terrain, unpredictable weather, and a determined enemy while advancing north through the Italian countryside. The capture of Campobasso and the surrounding high ground marked a key moment in the Canadian advance towards Rome.
The advance toward Campobasso was delayed by relentless rain and deteriorating roads. From October 9 to 11, torrential downpours and strong winds made the approach a gruelling slog, washing out temporary road repairs and disrupting troop movements. It was not until October 12 that the 48th Highlanders neared the city. Despite delays, they moved steadily, navigating blown bridges, ravines, and steep hills to reach forward positions near the town of Gildone.
On October 13, as the Highlanders drew near to Campobasso, they encountered sporadic enemy contact. One platoon engaged and quickly overran a German patrol near a critical road junction. Just as they were establishing their positions, the Highlanders faced a sudden counterattack by two German Mark IV tanks and accompanying infantry. The tanks fired on the Canadian positions near an artillery observation post, but the defenders, led by Lieutenant Jack Pickering and bolstered by determined men like Lance Corporal Norm McKay and Private J.V. Smith, held firm. Despite lacking proper anti-tank weapons, the Highlanders repelled the assault with grit, ingenuity and luck. The Germans eventually withdrew, sparing the Canadians a costly engagement.
Meanwhile, Ferrazzano, an elevated town with a commanding view of Campobasso, was secured by Dog Company. Captain James Counsell’s attack was met with minimal resistance. However, a brief firefight ensued when a German patrol surprised the troops during a celebratory pause. The skirmish resulted in the capture of prisoners and the acquisition of valuable German tactical maps.
At dawn on October 14, the Royal Canadian Regiment entered Campobasso with little resistance. Though German reports later claimed heavy fighting, the city fell quietly as the enemy withdrew. The Highlanders reached their objective with relatively few casualties, thanks in part to their cautious advance and effective patrolling.
Following the battle, Campobasso became a temporary rest centre for Canadian troops. Nicknamed “Canada Town,” it provided billets, entertainment, and a brief respite from the front. For the 48th Highlanders, the victory marked another step in their transformation from green troops to a seasoned regiment. They continued to carry the spirit of a happy battalion: resilient, cohesive, and proud, ready for the challenges that still lay ahead on the long road to Rome.