When: Saturday April 26
Time: @ 1:00 (Doors open at 12:30)
Where: Darby Middle School/Darby Auditorium
616 N 14th St, Fort Smith, AR 72901, USA
FREE!! FREE!! FREE!! FREE!!
Concessions Available.
You’ve heard the name: General William O. Darby. You’ve seen the signs as you enter Fort Smith: “Sister City to Cisterna, Italy.” Maybe you’ve walked past the Darby House, where young Billy Darby once called home, or explored The Darby Room at the Fort Smith Museum of History. His name, his story, his legacy — they’re everywhere in Fort Smith. Schools, statues, exhibits, and tales of Darby fill our city with pride. And Cisterna, Italy? It feels familiar too — our sister city across the ocean. But have you ever wondered why? What’s the story behind this deep connection?
April 30, 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of Col. Darby's death (April 30, 1945), listed as KIA in Nago-Torbole, Italy at the end of WWII. Local filmmakers Grant Thomas with Sol Studios and Dr. Brandon Chase Goldsmith with the Fort Smith International Film Festival have crafted an inspiring documentary that weaves together the remarkable story of General William O. Darby and Fort Smith’s 40-year sister city bond with Cisterna, Italy.
In the early days of 1944, the Allied forces stood on the precipice of a critical moment in the Italian Campaign. Along the rugged terrain of the Italian countryside, a pivotal battle was unfolding—a battle that would not only test the resolve of soldiers but would also mark a turning point in the campaign to drive the Nazi's from Europe.
At the heart of this struggle was a man of unwavering determination, General William O Darby—a leader whose audacity, bravery, and vision would forever alter the course of history. Born in the small town of Fort Smith, Arkansas, Darby grew up with a profound sense of duty and a desire to serve something greater than himself.
From these humble beginnings, Darby would rise to command the legendary 1st Ranger Battalions, leading them into one of their most harrowing missions: the liberation of Cisterna, a small town that stood as both a symbol of Nazi control and an obstacle in the path of Allied victory.
On January 30th, 1944, Darby and his Rangers, with their trademark skill and audacity, launched an assault against an entrenched German force. Against the backdrop of an enemy fortified in the harsh Italian landscape, they would face one of the most brutal and costly battles of the campaign.
Through the fire and fury of war, General Darby’s leadership, his unyielding spirit, and the valor of the men he commanded would become the defining force in the battle for Cisterna. What followed would be a story of sacrifice, heroism, and triumph—a story that changed the fate of Italy and brought the Allies one step closer to ultimate victory in Europe.
This is the story of Billy Darby, a son of Fort Smith, Arkansas, whose courageous efforts during World War II impacted countless lives. His leadership and valor not only changed the course of the war but also forged an enduring bond between the city of Fort Smith and the town of Cisterna—two places forever linked by his heroism and the sacrifice of those who fought beside him.
Today, as we remember the courage of those who fought under Darby’s command, we raise a toast not just to victory, but to the legacy of a man who made the world a little smaller and a lot braver. And so, from the heart of Arkansas to the fields of Italy, we say: Viva La Cisterna! Viva La Fort Smith!
Two towns, one hero, and a bond that will never be broken.
