sherman tanks

In this image, the allies cross Impruneta in Florence, August 3, 1944. (Ap Photo)

Translated from Italian: In early August 1944 Allied troops advanced towards Florence and British General Harold Alexander through leaflets and radio launched this statement to the citizens of the Tuscan capital: "A special message to the citizens of Florence. Allied armies approach Florence. The liberation of the City is near. You citizens of Florence need to be compact to preserve your city from destruction and defeat our common enemies: the Germans and the Fascists. [...]. Remove all obstacles, barricades and other obstructions from the streets. Let the streets and squares be free from military vehicles. It is vital for the Allies that the troops can cross Florence without the loss of time to complete the destruction of the German armies that withdraw northward. "