We landed in Italy on the beaches of Salerno on 'D-Day-plus-one', and joined the American Fifth Army. Slowly we advanced, first capturing Naples and then Rome. Our next objective was the town of Terni, and our major was called back to Brigade Headquarters in Rome to discuss tactics. As his sergeant (and high grade cypher expert), I accompanied him along with a driver-signaller. On arriving at H.Q. the major informed me that he would be in conference for the next three hours or so and therefore I could go venture off with the driver.

We were only a comparatively short distance from the Vatican City, so naturally we took advantage of the opportunity presented to us. On arrival I soon found an English-speaking Italian guide who conducted us round the magnificent St.Peter's Cathedral. What an impressive place it is. I still long to re-visit it! As we emerged we saw a great deal of excitement amongst the many American soldiers, and we found out that the Pope was soon to give his first public audience since the liberation four days previously.

My driver was a devout Roman Catholic whilst I was a practising Wesleyan Methodist. We joined the American soldiers hurrying into the Papal Palace, and we soon packed into a large room. A short time later the Papal guard sprang to attention, and through a large door emerged the Pope, carried in a 'carriage' high on the shoulders of six strong bearers. He was dressed all in white and made a truly impressive sight.

He alighted from his 'carriage' and the stood in front of what was an audience of several hundred American Servicemen - and two English soldiers. The Pope then addressed us in quite good English. He thanked us for our past in liberating Rome and then said he would give a general blessing following which he would pass amongst the giant crowd and give a personal blessing to six people.

Slowly he passed amongst the thong and as he neared us I could sense the excitement of my colleague. Here he was, a Roman Catholic, hoping and no doubt praying that he would be a chosen one. Suddenly, His Holiness stopped right in front of us. He stretched out his arm and his hand then gently rested upon my head! What a fantastic moment as the Pontiff gave me his personal blessing (in Latin), and handed me a Crucifix.

For the rest of my war years I continued to wear that Crucifix around my neck on the string which always carried my two identity discs.

This without doubt was one of the most wonderful experiences of my life and one that I will treasure for ever.

- Arthur Cope