Influence of Ultra Intelligence upon General Clark at Anzio

摘要

This study addresses the operational use of Ultra intelligence information during the preparation and execution of Operation Shingle or the invasion by Allied forces at Anzio 22 Jan 1944. At the heart of this discussion is the controversy over whether General Mark Clark received, appreciated, and reacted to Ultra. In addition, the other operational and logistical considerations are examined to fully understand if General Clark was capable of exploiting a window of opportunity or temporary vulnerable German situation after Allied forces were ashore at Anzio. As background, the study examines briefly the origin of Ultra and how this information was processed as well as disseminated during World War II, in Italy. The Allied military strategy, as it evolved from Prime Minister Churchill and President Roosevelt, is also briefly described to place Anzio in perspective with the upcoming invasion of France (Operation Overlord) and establish the strategic situation that influenced decisionmaking in the Mediterranean theater. (Author)