Fully illustrated throughout with detailed maps and photographs, this informative and entertaining book retells the story of the first six weeks of the bitter struggle to hold the Anzio beachhead against fierce German attacks, during the Italian campaign of 1944. VI Corps of the American Fifth Army, which included British and American units, seized and gained a foothold in this strategic position on the Italian coast. From this vital beachhead, Allied forces spearheaded the drive that led to the capture of Rome. This account is based on military records prepared in the field, enemy documents and interviews recorded during and after the operation.