The Monte Cervino Ski Battalion was certainly an exception in the poorly equipped Italian Armed Forces in the Second World War. Made up of highly specialized personnel - ski instructors and alpine guides - coming from the Alpine School of Aosta, the battalion received equipment that was decidedly superior to that of the average Italian soldiers: from camouflage suits to boots with vibram insulating rubber soles up to the number of MAB 38 submachine guns distributed in an unparalleled extent compared to other departments. Nicknamed by the Soviets Satanas Bielij "white devils" for their winter suits, the Monte Cervino's men proudly belonged to the best unit of the Italian Royal Army, and the most decorated in relation to his strength: 4 Golden medals for military bravery, 43 Silver and 69 Bronze.
The Soviet soldiers called this Italian unit the "White Devils" because of their white camouflage suits and their fighting power.
Group
Books (first-hand)
Author
Colloredo Mels, Pierluigi Romeo di
Title
White devils! "Monte Cervino" Alpine Ski Battalion 1941-1943
Details
English text, paperback, many bw-photos, some colour plates. 98 pages.
State
new
Soldiershop/Luca Cristini Ed. Via Orio 33/D 24050 Zanica (BG) Italien
