SEPTEMBER 17, 2024 – A group of more than one hundred Italians and Americans hiked mostly uphill for 45 minutes this summer to see the unveiling of a plaque marking the site of a piece of local World War II history. The location of the artifact, in the town of Arcugnano, a part of Vicenza, was finally uncovered after years of research by residents and Caserma Ederle employees.
“It was exciting to get other people excited about it,” said Kevin Shea, one of two garrison employees, along with Tony Quaglia, who were two of the people who helped rediscover this historic object. “This wouldn’t have been possible if it wasn’t for the efforts of so many smart and knowledgeable people.”
The tailpiece, of a B-24 Liberator heavy bomber that was shot down on December 28, 1943, was salvaged soon after the aircraft crashed near Lago di Fimon, just seven miles outside of Vicenza where the intended target was the train station’s rail yards.
According to the team’s research from local residents, one of the plane’s metal vertical tail stabilizers was installed as an awning for the entrance of a three-level hunting tower on top of Monte Castellaro, in the small village of Villa di Fimon. The local community unveiled a marker next to the tower explaining the history and significance of the remnants of the B-24.
“We are of course Americans and Italians, but we are one community,” said Gianni Vendramin, the president of the Arcugnano community organization. “We want the new generation to know what happened in this territory a long time ago.”
Since the discovery of the historical importance of the artifact, efforts were made to clear and mark the path leading to it with small airplane signs, so the public could hike to see and appreciate the artifact in person.
“I read a lot of World War II books, so this is really interesting,” said Junesy Belanger, a 13-year-old visiting the site with her father.
After the unveiling, the group hiked downhill to hear a historical explanation of the mission, aircraft and outcome of the crew who flew in the B-24.
“It’s part of our past right here in Italy and we get to experience it firsthand,” said Kyeyahn Belanger, an employee of USAG Italy.
You can find the artifact in hills above Villa di Fimon, in Arcugnano about 20 minutes away.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/m4rop4wa8N9mVPdA7
By Randall Jackson USAG Italy