Successful MP-themed tour in Italy

The recent MP-themed tour of south-central Italy, from 12–19 May 2024, was a huge success. Organized by Colonel Tony Battista (Retired), with promotional and financial support from the CMPA, the tour provided participants with an opportunity to recognize the important contributions and sacrifices made by Canadian Provost Corps (CProC) personnel in Italy during the Second World War as well as enjoy the exceptional sights, culture and food this region has to offer. Participants included MP veterans, spouses and other supporters, two serving MP Branch members, and a team from Bravery in Arms who filmed and photographed various sites and activities in support of an upcoming commemorative painting and documentary film about No. 5 Provost Company actions during the Battle of the Liri Valley in May–June 1944.

The CMPA is pleased to have provided funding to help allow the two serving MP Branch members, selected by the CF MP Gp, to participate in the trip and ensure an official CAF presence at several commemorative ceremonies held throughout the week. Captain Steve Keeble and Sgt Paul Hare proved to be excellent ambassadors of the MP Branch at these events. WO​ Michael Basica from the MPSS Det at the Canadian Embassy in Rome also kindly attended the ceremonies at Castro dei Volsci on 14 May.

Participants had an opportunity to visit the Cassino and Moro River (Ortona) war cemeteries in which thirteen members of the CProC are buried (six and seven respectively, at each location). At both cemeteries the MP Branch reps placed memorial wreaths, branch flags and poppies at the provost graves—a fitting salute to our fallen.

The photo galley, below, shows some highlights from the trip (click on thumbnails to enlarge & read captions).

Looking Back: CProC during the Battle of the Liri Valley

​Eighty years ago, the 1st Canadian Corps played a pivotal role in the Allied campaign to break through the layered German defences in south-central Italy in preparation for the liberation of Rome. During what has become known as the Battle of the Liri Valley, 1 Cdn Corps was very well supported by multiple units of the Canadian Provost Corps (CProC).

To learn more about the important support provided by the CProC during this battle, to find out about the actions of Capt Tony Scotti and members of No. 5 Provost Company who were commemorated in Castro dei Volsci on 14 May 2024, and to view period photos, please read the historical article here.