Medicina, April 2012

Medicina is a small medieval town close to Bologna which, for our Regiment, took on enormous stature following the short, fierce battle that took place there on 16th April 1945. As part of 43rd Gurkha Brigade our Regiment, fighting alongside 2/6 Gurkha Rifles, stormed the town and defeated elements of the German infantry - with the tanks of the 14th/20th (with 75mm guns) and the kukris & bayonets of the Gurkhas the battle was won, despite encountering German self-propelled guns, anti -tank weapons, and even at least one Tiger tank.

The battle honour was awarded to the only two regiments that had a presence in the town - 14/20th King's Hussars and 6th Gurkha Rifles. The battle resulted in the two Regiments forming an affiliation that still exists today.

25th April is National Liberation Day and we visiting the city of Medicina to join them in their celebrations. A total of 21 Noah's Arc members are making the trip.

Our Agenda

24th April - depart from MANchester airport on a 7:30am flight arriving at Venice Marco Polo airport at 11:00am

25th April - Coach excursion from our accommodation in Lido di Jesolo to the town of Medicina where we will be welcomed by the Mayor and dignitaries of the town at a civic reception and celebration of liberation. Return evening by coach to Jesolo.

26th April - optional boat trip into the wonderful city of Venice. There can be no better way to approach Venice other than by water.

27th April - Either: Free day in our resort town of Jesolo (private beach etc.) or we may arrange an additional excursion (if sufficient interest).

28th April - Transfer back to Marco Polo airport for a 11:30am flight arriving in Manchester at 13:00.