Derna, Libya
At the beginning of Italian invasion of France 10 June 1940, the "Bologna" division has stayed at the Libya-Tunisia border. After the conclusion of hostilities in Europe in the end of June, 1940, it was ordered occupation duties in the Bir al-Ghanam town south of Tripoli. In the beginning of 1941, majority of infantry have quartered in Gharyan while artillery regiment with some support troops was sent to the front line between Derna, Libya and Mechili. After overcoming an initial Allied resistance 23–25 January 1941, it was ferried by sea, landing in eastern Libya, and advanced rapidly on the Marj-Benghazi-Qaminis route, reaching destination 5 February 1941. In March, 1941, it together with the elements of 17th Infantry Division Pavia have performed a security duties at Sirte. The "Bologna" division was called for the siege of Tobruk in the late May, 1941.