Chapter 79 The Prelude Of The Italian Campaign



"Before we move forward to the planning," Napoleon began, walking past the generals with their hands still on salute. "I would like to introduce myself formally to all of you. My name is General Napoleon Bonaparte and I am assigned to be the Commander of the Army of Italy. Now, I know some of you would have reservations about my appointment but I assure you that I am fully committed to the success of our campaign here."

General Sérurier, General Augereau, General Masséna, and General Berthier lowered their hands and nodded their heads in agreement.

"Now, where is General Berthier?" Napoleon asked, glancing at the room. As if on cue, General Berthier stepped forward, his demeanor composed yet attentive.

"Here I am, General Bonaparte," General Berthier replied, his voice steady and respectful. "I am General Louis-Alexandre Berthier, and I have been appointed as your Chief of Staff."

Napoleon nodded appreciatively. "Ah, General Berthier, it's a pleasure to meet you. You see, one of my aides-de-camp, Mr. Murat, told me that you have something to present to me. Is that correct?"

"Oui, General Bonaparte. It has written a comprehensive proposal for an overhaul of our logistic and transport system. I have it on my desk in my office, if I may General," Berthier said.

Napoleon glanced over his shoulder and called. "Mr. Murat."

"Yes, General?" Murat stood at attention, ready to carry out Napoleon's command.

"Go to General Berthier's office and retrieve the proposal he mentioned. Bring it back here immediately," Napoleon instructed.

Murat saluted and swiftly exited the room, leaving the generals to their anticipation. Within minutes, he returned, holding a neatly bound document in his hands.

"General Bonaparte, I have the proposal right here," Murat announced, presenting the document to Napoleon.

Napoleon took the proposal from Murat's hands and glanced at the cover, which bore the seal of General Berthier. He nodded approvingly and turned his attention back to Berthier.

"Tell me more about this proposal of yours..." he said while perusing the contents of the document.

"Thank you, General Bonaparte," Berthier began confidently. "The proposal aims to address the critical issues we currently face in our logistical and transport systems. It outlines a comprehensive plan to reorganize and optimize the supply chain, ensuring that our troops are well-fed, adequately equipped, and ready for action."

He paused briefly and continued. "Firstly, I propose scouring the regions of southern France for food, forage, and other necessary resources. We shall establish a network of reliable suppliers and depots strategically positioned to support our operations effectively. By utilizing local resources, we can reduce our reliance on long and vulnerable supply lines."

Berthier's gaze swept across the attentive faces of the generals, gauging their reactions. Encouraged by their focused attention, he pressed on.

"Furthermore, we must harness the potential of new technological advancements in transportation. One such innovation is the steam locomotive. Although it is still in its infancy, I believe it holds immense promise for revolutionizing our logistical capabilities. These steam engines can transport large quantities of supplies swiftly and efficiently, covering long distances in a fraction of the time it would take with traditional methods.

"Moreover, I propose the creation of specialized transport units that can handle the specific needs of our army. These units will be responsible for organizing and maintaining an efficient flow of supplies, ensuring that they reach our troops in a timely manner. They will coordinate closely with the depots and suppliers, streamlining the entire process."

Berthier's eyes met Napoleon's, and he detected a spark of interest in the commander's gaze. It fueled his determination to continue impressing upon them the importance of his proposal.

"Additionally, we need to establish a clear system of accountability and oversight. By implementing rigorous record-keeping practices and introducing regular inspections, we can identify and address any inefficiencies promptly. This will foster discipline, transparency, and ensure that our resources are utilized optimally."

As Berthier outlined his proposal, Napoleon smiled in satisfaction.

"I must say, I am impressed by your foresight and attention to detail. It is evident that you have considered the needs of our troops and the demands of our campaign. Your emphasis on local resources, adoption of new transportation like the steam locomotives, and the establishment of specialized transport units demonstrate your strategic thinking which I will need throughout this campaign. I have my decision, you are to implement this immediately, by any means necessary."

"Thank you, General Bonaparte, I am truly humbled by your confidence in my plan. I assure you that I will devote myself entirely to its implementation."

***

March 27th, 1796. At the headquarters of the Army of Italy.

Napoleon stood on the platform, surveying the rows of demoralized soldiers before him. Their uniforms were tattered, their spirits low. It was evident that the previous hardships had taken a toll on their morale. Napoleon understood the gravity of the situation and knew that he needed to uplift their spirits.

With a resolute expression, Napoleon raised his hand, signaling for silence. The soldiers turned their attention to their commander, curiosity flickering in their eyes.

"Soldiers, the reality before us is stark: we lack abundance, surviving on meager rations, with little to expect from a burdened government. Yet, your unwavering courage amidst these desolate rocks deserves more than admiration alone. I present you a vision, a vision of marching into fertile plains unrivaled in their bounty.

Imagine it, comrades. Vast provinces stretching endlessly, promising abundance and prosperity. Majestic cities beckon us forward, holding the key to honor, glory, and unimaginable riches. Soldiers of Italy, I ask you, will your courage and constancy waver?

Together, let us forge a path where our names echo through ages, tales of valor and triumph resounding through time. We possess the power to reshape destinies, leaving an indomitable mark on history. Enduring the present is not enough; we must transcend, rising above these barren rocks. Now is the time to march, to claim our rightful place in the realms of honor and fame.

No longer confined to shadows, we shall revel in the radiance of victory. Each step brings us closer to a future where our prowess captivates the world. Let our enemies tremble at our name, for we embody courage and resilience. Join me on this journey—a journey that defines us, our legacy, and the destiny of our beloved Italy.

Soldiers of Italy, let my words ignite the fire within your souls. Unite behind the call for glory and riches, fueled by unwavering determination. We stand on the precipice of greatness, ready to claim our rightful place in history. With courage as our shield and constancy as our sword, we shall surpass the limitations imposed upon us. Our present struggles become mere stepping stones toward a limitless future. Soldiers, the time has come to write our own destiny."

As these words reached the ears of the weary soldiers, a spark of hope ignited within them. Heads that were once bowed began to lift, and eyes that were once filled with weariness now gleamed with a newfound determination. The weight of their burdens seemed to lessen, replaced by a renewed sense of purpose.

And in an instant, their hands shot up into the air, a resounding cheer erupting from their lips.

Napoleon smiled with satisfaction as he witnessed the transformation in the soldiers' demeanor.

After that inspiring speech, Napoleon wasted no time revamping his army. He understood that discipline and organization were crucial to their success. With the assistance of his capable aides-de-camp, he embarked on a comprehensive reorganization effort.

The first step was to enforce discipline among the troops. Any signs of misconduct or insubordination were swiftly addressed. Rotten units were identified and disbanded, while soldiers who showed exceptional skill and dedication were promoted and given positions of leadership.

Simultaneously, General Berthier's proposal was put into effect, bringing about significant improvements in the logistics and transport system. The supply chain was reorganized, ensuring that the troops were well-fed, properly equipped, and ready for action. Local resources were efficiently utilized, reducing reliance on vulnerable supply lines.

As the weeks passed, the improvements became evident. The soldiers were no longer weary and depressed, they were transformed into a disciplined and motivated fighting force.

***

April 11, 1796. In the city of Albenga, the new Army of Italy's Headquarters.

Napoleon was in his personal room in the city hall, writing letters to Ciela. The telegraph line was still under construction, so the only way for him to reach out to her was by traditional method.

Moments later, one of his aides-de-camp, Murat entered the tent.

"General," Murat called.

"What is it?" Napoleon asked.

"A messenger from Voltri has just arrived. The Austrians have indeed launched an assault on Voltri, just as you predicted," Murat informed.

A smile crept across Napoleon's face. "Summon the generals immediately. Inform them that we will launch an offensive tomorrow morning. Also, relay a message to the messenger who delivered the news: instruct our troops at Voltri to retreat from their position and join our ranks."

"Understood, General," Murat saluted and quickly left the tent to relay the orders.

The moment Murat left, Napoleon let out an amused laugh. "So it begins."