On 2 February, after a visit by the Fifth (US) Army Commander, General Mark Clark, the 2nd Inniskillings were given one week of rest and recuperation. The Battalion retired south of the River Garigliano and went to the town of Falciano.

There, the Drums and Pipes sounded retreat each evening. Other entertainment included a cinema and a ‘one-girl’ show. The period of relaxation ended suddenly on 10 February when the Battalion was ordered to return to the north side of the Garigliano and occupy positions on the slopes of Monte Damiano, a feature that the Germans still held.

Left, General Mark Clark, US Army (© IWM NA 147)