During the brilliant and celebrated campaign
of Italy, in the year 1797, after the battle of Castiglione and the reduction
of Mantua, the Austrian army was entrenched behind the Tagliamento. The French
crossed this torrent in the sight and under the grape shot of the enemy, and
forced the entrenchments. The capture of Trieste was the result of this bold
enterprise.
The medal recording the event represents, on one side, the river Tagliamento
placed between two armies, in the attitude of defending the Austrians against
the vehemence of the French.
On the reverse is a crown of laurel, on which is written,