Sicily

Planning for the invasion of Sicily.

This informative map of Sicily was compiled and published in June 1943 by the 649th Engineer Battalion of the U.S. Army. The following month, the launch of Operation Husky would see Allied forces begin a combined amphibious and airborne campaign to capture the island from its Italian defenders.

The image emphasizes Sicily’s road network, highlighting First-Class routes in bright red. Mileage between stars is also noted, along with the location of emergency airfields, seaplane bases, and airdromes. Inset plans show the major urban centers of Syracuse, Messina, Catania, Palermo, and Agrigento; as well as harbors at Porto Empedocle and Licata. Printed text in the upper left notes the map was “For Use of War Air and Navy Depts Only Not For Distribution.”