The Canadians faced elements of the renowned German 1st
Parachute Division. These soldiers were battle-hardened after
many years of war, and were ordered by Hitler to defend Ortona
at any cost. The initial Canadian attack on the town was made on
December 20 by Canadian 2nd Brigade's Loyal Edmonton Regiment
with elements of the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada under
command. Meanwhile elements of the division's 3rd Infantry
Brigade launched a northerly attack to the west of the town in
attempt to outflank and cut off the town's rear communications
but made slow progress because of the difficult terrain and the
skilful and determined German defence. In the town itself, the
Germans had placed various barricades and left rubble strewn
throughout the narrow side streets surrounding the Piazza
Municipale. The only available route for the Canadian tanks was
through the Corso Vittorio Emanuele, which was heavily mined and
trapped; traps would serve the Germans with deadly efficiency
during the eight days of fighting. T