Active 1939–1943 Branch Italian Army Size Division | Country Italy Type Infantry Garrison/HQ Forlì | |
The 56th Infantry Division Casale was a regular Infantry Division of the Italian Army during World War II. It was formed in 1939 in Forlì and was dissolved in September 1943 in Aetolia-Acarnania region of Greece. Majority of its men have originated from Romagna.
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Action
The Casale Division was sent to Albania 14 March 1941 to reinforce the failing Italian Spring Offensive. It immediately proceed to fight in Shushicë. By 20 March 1941, it was included into Italian XXV Army Corps and was fighting in Tepelenë area. The contact with Greek forces was lost soon after the start of Battle of Greece 6 April 1941, and Casale has engaged in cautious advance along Drin valley. 18 April 1941, it encountered Greek rear-guard at Lumi i Kardhiqit, 19 April 1941 - reached Gjirokastër. 22 April 1941 the division reached Greek border near Delvinaki, where it has meet with German patrols. It was used for mopping-up operations in Zitsa, Negrades, and Paramythia. After this task complete, the Casale was moved to the south of Ambracian Gulf, stopping in 1942 with garrisons in Agrinio, Amfilochia and Missolonghi. The division performed several anti-partisan raids in Agrinio, Kato Achaia, Chrysóvitsa (or nearby Chrysovítsa), and other locations. After Armistice of Cassibile announcement 8 September 1943, parts of 11th regiment joined Greek partisans while other sub-units of division have melted away under murky circumstances.