King Charles honors overlooked Allied victory in Italy

In April 2025, King Charles and Queen are set to visit Ravenna, Italy, to commemorate a significant yet often neglected event from World War II. This visit marks the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Ravenna, which occurred in 1945 amidst intense conflict. The Allies faced formidable challenges during their campaign against Nazi forces, particularly in the Po Valley, where the British Eighth Army launched a vicious and relentless battle. Despite its brutality, the campaign has not received the recognition it deserves, overshadowed by subsequent Allied offensives further north in Germany. Military historian Frank de Planta drew attention to the brutality and cunning involved in the campaign, emphasizing the need for acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by those involved. The event not only seeks to pay tribute to the soldiers who fought but also serves as a reminder of the importance of remembering all fronts of the war, especially those that are often overlooked in the broader narrative of history. As King Charles and the royal family honor this past, it reflects a growing trend to recognize the efforts of Allied forces throughout the war and the impact of their victories on shaping modern Europe.