Antheor Viaduct

The Anthéor viaduct was a key Allied target in 1943, vital for disrupting Nazi supply lines between southern France and northern Italy—up to 15,000 tonnes of goods crossed it daily.

Despite repeated bombing raids by the RAF (including the famed Dambusters) and U.S. forces from September 1943 to June 1944, the viaduct remained largely intact due to heavy anti-aircraft defenses. Only on 15 August 1944, during preparations for the Provence landings, was it finally disabled by American bombers and the USS Brooklyn.
The adjacent beach, surprisingly, served as a landing site for 860 troops from the U.S. 36th Infantry Division (Texas). Initial landings were smooth, but fierce resistance from OST 661 forces followed. Several landing craft were damaged or sunk, yet by 10 a.m., the beach was secured.

The battalion advanced through Agay and reached Théoule-sur-Mer on 16 August after intense fighting. Over 1,200 enemy troops were captured.

A plaque on the viaduct honors the fallen: 2 airmen, 2 sailors, and 5 infantrymen.

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Source

• Text: TracesofWar
• Photos: Rónán Gallagher
• liberationroute