Paul McNaughton grew up hearing how his father was rescued by an Italian family while fighting the Nazis during World War 2.
Eighty years after his father returned home, McNaughton has tracked down and met the family in Italy to say thank you.
His visit formed part of an emotional commemoration of the Allied Forces’ contribution to the war effort — notably at the battle of Monte Salvaro — attended on Sunday and Monday by South African government officials and descendants of South African soldiers.
In late 1944. Jack McNaughton fell seriously ill while fighting for the Allies and was sheltered by Bianca Nanni, whose son had been killed in the war in Abyssinia [now Ethiopia]. She nursed Jack back to health and while recovering in Nanni’s house in Savignano, he witnessed Bianca give birth to a daughter, Silvana, now 79, who was part of the commemoration.
“We went to meet there — it was a very emotional moment for me,” Paul said of the unusual reunion, which his father had been unable to do himself during his lifetime. “Certainly it was something that my father had wanted to do, but he was unable to because he was a farmer [near Graaff Reinet] and unable to leave his farm.”
The reunion was one of several poignant encounters for South Africans and Italians during several days of commemorative events at several locations. South Africa's Sixth Armoured Division played a crucial role in pushing back the German army during a series of battles during World War 2. Up to 700 dead and nearly 3,000 injured, a sacrifice that still resonates with the Italian people, McNaughton said. “The people here say we can never repay you — it has been emotionally really overwhelming.”
“The extent to which the 6th armoured division is revered in Castiglione is borne out by the fact that there is a monument in the centre of town and an avenue dedicated to them,” said McNaughton, who was accompanied by his wife, three sons, daughter-in-law, and grandchild. “My family have been part of this whole operation and we were received with such warmth and generosity.”
Commemorative events include a wreath-laying service held on the peak of Monte Stanco where the South Africans fought a bloody but successful battle against the German forces. There was a follow-up ceremony at the South African War Memorial which featured a brass band playing the national anthem.
“It was a very moving and special occasion to see the high regard the Italians have of South African forces,” said Mandi Campbell, whose father also fought in the Italian campaign. “All told, the Italians remember with affection the South African soldiers and show their gratitude to our fathers from 'a faraway land' who helped them attain their liberty.”
The 80th anniversary commemoration ceremony was held for the 6th SA armoured division in Grizzana Morandi.
