The Alpini are a mountain infantry corps of the Italian Army, that distinguished itself in combat during World War I and World War II. In addition they are also famous in Italy for their songs and choirs. The first Alpini units were formed in 1872 recruiting it soldiers among the inhabitants of the valleys of Italy’s northern mountain regions. During World War I the Alpinis saw heavy combat all over the alpine arch. The war has become known as the "War in snow and ice", as most of the 600 km frontline ran through the highest mountains and glaciers of the Alps and every position was occupied around the whole year. It was during these years that the Alpini, their spirit and their mules became legend, although at the cost of over 12,000 deaths out of a total of 40,000 mobilized Alpinis. During this time many songs originated within the Alpini corps that tell of the hardships and brutality of this conflict. After World War I former members (called: "Veci") founded choirs in their hometowns and offered thus the Italian people a glimpse into the hardships of the "War in Snow and Ice". Some of the most famous and well known Alpini songs are: Aprite le Porte An upbeat choral calling on people to open their doors and have look at a column of advancing Alpini. Bersagliere Ha Cento Penne This song begins by telling the difference between the single, long black feather which distinguishes the Alpini's service caps from the Bersaglieri's, who have a lot of smaller feathers on their cap (despite the fact they are an older formation than the Alpini). It goes on to tell why being an Alpino is harder than any other soldier's job, and says that the Alpini don't fear death because they die among the flowers of the Alps. Features the rivalry between the two elite corps of the Italian army in their first decades. Cosa Fai, Mio Bel Gin Gin This song tells the story of a wife, who awaits the return of her husband, but is told by retreating Alpini, that her wait is in vain. Di qua, di là del Piave A song about a beautiful girl. E Cadorna Manda A Dire General Cadorna calls on the Alpini to advance and guard the frontier heights, even at the cost of the loss of their comrades. Era Una Notte Che Pioveva