The first Allied landings on mainland Europe were around San Giovanni and Regio on the toe of Italy. Elements of the British 8th Army with massive air and sea support landed against little opposition. A significant bridgehead was quickly established. A two pronged advance overcame what resistance there was and Commando landings helped to leapfrog difficult positions. Landings at Taranto seized the harbour and pushed inland. By the 8th Sept. German resistance had stiffened however, after the Salerno landings, 9th Sept., some troops opposing the 8th Army were withdrawn to face the new threat. By the 17th the 8th Army occupied the 'foot' and the 'heel' of Italy.

The regions of Calabria and part of Apulia in the toe, foot and heel of Italy (Italy)