Post by Diarist on Dec 24, 2015 12:24:28 GMT 1
The 'Closure of the Suez Canal' message set the AEF in high gear. Battalion commanders and higher were being informed of the true nature of the allied response and how essential it is to keep these plans secret. We have to catch the Italians by surprise in order to prevent failure and a disaster for our forces. They were also informed that dozens of troops in their commands are already in Italy and weapons and uniforms are in a Turin depot being issued to these soldiers. They will be supporting your missions on the Italian side of the border. Frequencies and call-signs were distributed to the commanders. General Smith, (Patton), personally addressed the commanders of the Mobile Corps stressing the need for a swift advance. "Forget the flanks because the troops behind you will take care of them. There will be troops from within commands landing at your destinations, courtesy of the French Navy, prior to your arrival so watch out for them".
The Navy commanders were also briefed on their missions. Personnel from the TRADOC/Gibraltar/Toulon planning group were on the flagship of each Task Force and were present when the 'Red Envelopes' were opened. They would be transporting infantry to several ports in NW Italy as well as attacking a few Italian Navy ports on the west Italian coast and Sardinia. The British Royal Navy has 4 aircraft-carrier groups, (incl. the Béarn), in the Mediterranean and would be attacking the remaining important naval ports. Pairs of destroyers, sometimes with a light cruiser, will be bombarding airfields which are near to the coast - the majority are - the Armée de l'Air will bombard others. Submarines will proceed to the entrances of important ports and have the permission to fire ahead of time if a valuable ship is leaving port. They were also informed of 'fireships' which will be launched against major ports. The detonators have been set for 06:30, i.e. just before first-light, and after that you can fire at will.
The element of surprise is paramount for success so don't arrive at your Area of Operations, (AO), too early and don't leave port or head towards your AO before dark. Absolute radio silence has been ordered. Commanders have not only received their orders but have plans for other units in their AO to give a better understanding of their part in the operation and to promote coordination with neighbouring forces.