New Zealanders begin the Third Battle, March 15th, 1944
The new assault would move straight up the south side of the mountain, and would once again involve the New Zealand and Indian divisions. After a bombardment of over 750 tons lasting three and a half hours, the New Zealanders advanced in Cassino town behind a creeping artillery barrage. Success depended on taking advantage of the paralyzing effect of the bombing, however German defenses had quickly reorganized.