August 1943

Sicily

After series of unsuccessful attacks, the 3rd Infantry Division finally breaks into the San Fratello position just before nightfall and storm Hill 673, threatening Gen Fries's left flank. Max Ulich is ordered to dislodge the Americans. After a 45 minute artillery barrage, the 15th Panzer Grenadier Regiment counterattacks. A bitter struggle lasting almost two hours which devolves into hand-to-hand combat in some cases. The panzer grenadiers break off the attack about 2:00am the next morning.

The 9th Division replaces the 1st Division and begins the drive on Randazzo, an enemy strongpoint that on this date is the target for a peak air effort. The 9th Division pushes eastward in 2 columns, one from Monte Pelato, 8 miles north of Troina, and the other along Highway 120.

During the night, a small amphibious force (the 2nd Battalion of the 30th Infantry, reinforced) makes landing on coast 2 miles east of San Agata, greatly facilitating progress in that area.

Early in the morning the British 78th Division pushes the remnants of 2 battalions of the 3rd Parachute Infantry out of Bronte. The British 5th Infantry Division capture Acireale before being pinched out of the line.