2 INNISKILLINGS share POWs with Americans

Allied map showing Isernia, Italy.

In November 1943, the 2nd Battalion The Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers had advanced into the town of Isernia, Italy and had as their neighbours a brigade of American Airborne with whom there existed a close and friendly liaison.

At this time, both the Americans and the Inniskillings were very busy patrolling against the nearby enemy outposts. The patrolling was vigilant, adventurous and continuous, and the Battalion won the highest praise from the Divisional Commander.

Captain Harry James Christie DSO MC (176868) was one of several distinguished patrol leaders. One patrol under Christie snatched Vincenzo village from the enemy and herded its garrison into the arms of an American patrol. The chivalrous Americans insisted on dividing the bag of prisoners with the Inniskillings.