WWII USSR Soldier near the front line in front of Babka (bend of the Don). The photograph was taken a few days before the Russian offensive and the beginning of the retreat. From the plain covered with snow highlights the dark line of the terrain of a balka that is a natural fissure that form a walkway protected. The Balke; frequent in the area were a great help when traveling on retreat; but they could also turn out to be a trap if covered even by the Russians in the attack. Photograph taken by Lieutenant Roberto Cacchi; author of numerous valuable color photographic evidences of the tragic expedition to Russia; a veteran survivor of the 2nd Division Alpine "Tridentine"; 6th Alpini Regiment under the command of Colonel Paolo Signorini; Battalion Verona. USSR; December 1942.