Eighty years after the 10th Mountain Division helped liberate Italy from fascism in WWII, their descendants, including many Coloradans, returned to honor their legacy. This summer, they visited key battle sites and were warmly welcomed by locals, particularly in Tuscan villages like Lizzano in Belvedere. Descendants expressed concerns that their own country is slipping into fascism, with Peggy Hall flying her flag upside down in fear for America’s future. While some, like Hall, believed the current administration threatens democracy, others like Ross Raney contested the use of the term “fascism,” claiming it mischaracterizes the political climate. Mayor Barbara Franchi reflected on the lasting bond between the communities, expressing hope for peace in a world marked by rising fascism. Overall, the trip emphasized emotional connections to history while raising important discussions about the present-day political landscape.
Voices of Valor: 10th Mountain Division Veterans Warn of Rising Authoritarianism
By xpectafight
