July 1944

Italy

The US 5th Army issues orders for the next phase, the drive to the Gothic Line. While the British 8th Army is clearing heights north and northwest of Florence, the 5th Army is to cross the Arno in the vicinity of Montelupo, tentatively between 5 and 10 August, and take Monte Albano, Pistoia, and Lucca. The II Corps is to take over the entire 5th Army front while preparations are being made for the attack. The 34th Division, upon reaching the Arno, is to be detached from the IV Corps and pass to army control. In the IV Corps area, the 91st Division begins clearing the enemy from the south bank of the Arno without meeting serious opposition. TF Ramey releases the 1st Armored Division elements under its command. Relief of the FEC in their current positions is begun by the British during the night of the 21st.

In the British 8th Army's XIII Corps area, elements of the New Zealand 2nd and Indian 8th Divisions move forward to relieve the FEC. The South African 6th Armored Division battles the enemy on the heights near Greve.

The X Corps finishes regrouping. After nightfall, the Germans begin withdrawing from the salient at Citta di Castello.