The 10th Mountain Division: Ridge Runners

The Italian Campaign of WWII is often overlooked by military historians even though it contained some of the bloodiest battles of the war. The exploits of the famed 10th Mountain Division--an elite American group trained specifically for mountain warfare--are related in this video in a sincere, yet pedestrian, manner. The information on the battles of Riva Ridge and Mount Belvedere is detailed, the historical newsreel footage is clear and graphic, and interviews with surviving American, German, and Italian officers bring a personal touch to the video. Certainly, the heroism of the division cannot be doubted and their story deserves to be told. Unfortunately, in the glut of WWII 50th anniversary videos, the images of war are beginning to blur. If your library needs extensive military history materials or if you serve a large retired military population, this would be an important title to add to your collection. Otherwise, it's an optional purchase. Aud: P. (J. Carlson)