Ghosts of Ortona: Reckoning with the Traumas of Canadian World War II Veterans

"The general gave us a talk. He said the more Germans you kill, the quicker you're gonna get home."

As a young anthropologist, Ian Cosh set out to document the memories of a little-known but costly World War II battle fought over Christmas in the Italian town of Ortona. His research took him across western Canada, and to Italy and Germany, interviewing veterans and civilians. In their stories, he encountered puzzling details--hints of things unspoken and unresolved. Sam was obsessively mapping a minor skirmish on graph paper. Mel kept mentioning an Indigenous sniper he'd never met. Ted was haunted by the ghost of a church. Bill recalled nothing of Christmas dinner, though his comrades swore he was there.

When the project ended, Ian tried to leave it behind. Now returning to his field notes and interview transcripts, he's determined to understand what was missed.

Ghosts of Ortona is a powerful, empathetic exploration of the hidden psychological costs of killing and survival. Rich in dialogue, imagery, and insight, it immerses readers in the lives of those affected--and challenges the way we remember war.