In the spring of 1943, the U.S. and British governments realized that the imminent Allied invasions of the continent had the potential -- indeed, the likelihood -- of unleashing catastrophic damage upon the fine arts of Europe.

Consequently, 50 distinguished museum directors, curators, archaeologists, architects and art historians were given the daunting responsibility of preventing or minimizing this destruction. There were no guidelines or precedence to assist them in this task.

Most of these men were in their 40s and 50s. A few were commissioned as captains, but most were lieutenants and sergeants. Young combat GIs called these over-the-hill officers "Venus Fixers" because they "fussed about old broken statues while bullets were flying." This nickname, originally a pejorative, quickly became an endearment because of their extraordinary bravery and zealous dedication.

Several years ago, a PBS documentary referred to them as "Monument Men."

Much has been written about D-Day and the Western front, but few are aware of the Italian campaign's incredible loss of life and extensive physical damage.

Often under fire, the Venus Fixers would enter cities and villages to rescue paintings, statues and other fine art. They would assess the damage and initiate emergency salvage operations to save immovable items from the ravages of weather.

Their influence and knowledge forced the Army Air Corps to develop low-level precision bombing to avoid the destruction of Renaissance buildings and statues near military targets.

All who live in, or have visited, postwar Europe are indebted to these people; several became honorary citizens and are buried in Italian cities.

The author has a pleasant style, and her research is as masterful as the masterpieces that she writes about; however, her enthusiasm for sharing every small detail about a piece of art occasionally interferes with the continuity of the story. But that is a minor point.

Those who relish good history can scan these passages; those who exalt in art will savor them.

"The Venus Fixers" is a welcome and important addition to the compendium of World War II histories.