The Italian Folgore Parachute Division: Operations in North Africa 1940-43

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"The North African campaign was one of the hardest-fought episodes of World War Two, yet the vital part played by the Italian Army - and in particular, its Folgore Parachute Division on behalf of the Axis Alliance - is frequently overlooked. Initially created to emulate the German Fallschirmajäger (in order to carry out the planned airborne attack against the British base of Malta),Folgore Airborne Division fought on the battle fields of North Africa - including the key Battle of El Alamein. This elite unit distinguished itself at El Alamein, despite inadequate equipment and weapons, while facing unfavorable odds. This book describes a paratroop unit that earned the respect of its Allied opponents during some of the hardest-fought engagements of North Africa. The key theme of this book is the paratroopers' involvement in the Axis war effort, through an analysis of their training, weaponry and battle tactics; another key focus is an assessment of the Folgore's specific role during the majorbattless of the North African campaign ... By drawing from archaival sources from both sides, it also furnishes a more complete and balanced perspective on a critical juncture in the war, such as the Battle of El Alamein." -- From page [i]