Italy's Part.

Taranaki Daily News, 31 July 1915, Page 5

Italy's Part.

A HOLOCAUST. LIVING MOTIONLESS TARGETS. Received July 30, "J. 30 p.m. Koine, Julv 30. During the second phase of tne supreme Austrian eoiint.er-offen.sive against the bridge-head at Sticrndo, on the 22nd, the enemy's columns suddenly found .themselves under a terrific cross-fire from the Italian field batteries. Men could plainly be seen mowed down in dozens. For one tremendous hour tlie Austrians Were unable to go either furward or backwards, but stood living, motionless targets for the Italian gunners. The 'blood-curdling scene only ended when a thousand survivor* signalled that they would surrender.

SLOW PROGRESS. ALPINi ANNIHILATED. Received July 30, 10.30 p.m. Rome, July 30. Official: Marked progress has been made in C'ordesolc Valley. The enemy advanced in force at Padola Valley, but were repulsed. Our artillery wrecked another cupola at Forthens'el. The enemy deployed great forces at Carso, and, supported by violent artillery fire, attempted to advance, but were driven back after suffering great losses. Prisoners state that the defeated troops had just arrived on the scene.' One regiment of Alpinists was almost annihilated. Our, advance continues slowly. We took prisoner J485 at Carso on Tuesday and Wednesday.

AUSTRIAN REPORT. SUCCESSES CLAIMED. Received July 30, 0.30 p.m. Amsterdam, July 30. Tlie Italians made unsuccessful attacks on the edge of the plateau near SdrausHina. and Vermegliano. The enemy evacu,nted his position before the bridgehead at Gorizia and retreated to the position occupied prior to the battle. We annihilated an Italian company in the region of Tofami. FIRING UN THE WOUNDED. Rome, July 20. It is semi-off'eially stated that while a column of wounded was leaving the battlefield at the Isonzo to reach the motor ambulances, an Austrian aeroplane descended to 300 metres, whence the bandages were, clearly visible, and opened a vigorous machine-gun fire upon the wounded, and continued for some time. Fortunately little damage was done.