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21 Luglio-4 Agosto 1944 I GIORNI DELLA LIBERAZIONE. Le truppe neozelandesi da San Donato alle porte di Firenze.
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(Comune di San Casciano Val di Pesa, Comune di Scandicci, Comune di Tavarnelle Val di Pesa).
This cooperatively written book, with eleven contributing authors, was made possible largely through the friendships formed through the Christchurch Italy Star Association and the Italians in Tavarnelle. It is released in Italian, but an English version is underway.
Several of the speakers emphasised that the book is not a military history book, but rather the story of the soldiers and the civilians of the two nations; about the people and their shared experiences. Personal recollections and many many photographs create a vivid picture of the time.
When I arrived a little early I thought that the auditorium was far too grand and big for a book launch. Two hours later it was full!
In true Italian style the towns were represented by their mayors, the banners, and the inevitable band. The rendition of the Italian anthem was spirited, while the rather slower pace of the New Zealand anthem had me wanting to stand up and conduct to a faster beat.
The mayor of Tavarnelle Val di Pesa was the main driving force in the project. He shares some laughter with the New Zealand ambassador partway through the presentation.
New Zealand veteran soldiers and authors share the front row of the auditorium.
Dr Monty Soutar, along with Jeff Plowman, Sindaco Stefano Fusi and veteran soldiers, signs countless copies of the book. 
A large turnout of local people from four towns outside Florence made the launch extra special. People arrived bringing their photographs from wartime, eager to share their stories and show the Kiwis how it was back then.
Today I am grateful for the interesting life I lead in Italy.
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