Polskie Siły Zbrojne w ZSRR, 1941-1942

A Polish army was set up in the Soviet Union, headed by General Vladislav Anders. Despite the fact that the officers in Anders’ army were generally hostile towards them, some 4,000 Jews – 5% of the total number of soldiers – served in its ranks. At the end of 1942, Anders’ Army reached Eretz Israel via Tehran. Some 3,000 Jewish soldiers stayed in the country, joining the Jewish Underground. Those who remained in Anders’ Army took part in the invasion of Italy and the battles in the area of Monte Casino. 22 Jewish soldiers were killed at Monte Casino, 62 were injured, and many were awarded medals of honor at the end of the war.