A proclamation announcing the victory of the Allies and the surrender of German forces in the Italian campaign. May ...

A proclamation announcing the victory of the Allies and the surrender of German forces in the Italian campaign. May 2, 1945

SPECIEL ORDER OF THE DAY - Proclamation addressed to Allied soldiers in the Mediterranean arena announcing the victory of the forces over the Nazi enemy in the Italian campaign - Victory Day - May 2, 1945. Signed by Field Marshal Harold Alexander [in plate] Allied Land Forces Commander For the liberation of Italy.

In the proclamation, the commander summarizes the fierce battles: after two years of war starting in the summer of 1943 you are now victorious in the Italian campaign.' After cleaning Italy from the last of the Nazi soldiers, you liberated a land of over 40 million inhabitants. This is one of the most glorious victories in history, no high enough prize to be given to the great soldiers, my blessings and admiration for you, I am proud to be your commander'.

On April 29, 1945, Alexander accepted the surrender of the Axis forces in Italy, when a few days later all German forces surrendered and the war in Europe ended. For his service and command, Alexander was awarded several decorations and titles throughout the war, on March 1, 1946, along with other prominent officers in the war, Alexander was awarded the 'Vicar Alexander of Tunis and Irrig' by King George VI.

Harold Rupert Leofric George Alexander, born in London [1891-1969], a Field Marshal in the British Army, who fought in the two world wars, and was especially known for his command of the North African campaign and the World War II Mediterranean campaign. After his military service, Alexander served, inter alia, as the Governor General of Canada, the 17th since the unification of Canada and the 6th Secretary of Defense.

[1] leaf. 21x16 cm. Very good condition.