HAND TO HAND

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVIII, Issue 20622, 25 November 1941, Page 6

HAND TO HAND

INFANTRY FIGHT HARD N.Z. BLOWS CHIEF SUPPLY DUMP (Elec. Tel. Copyright—United Prous AssnH (From the Official War Correspondent with the N.Z.E.F.) (Reed. Nov. 25, 1.50 p.m.) CAIRO. Nov. 24. With the capture of Gambut, the New Zealand Division struck hard at the enemy as the Bth Army continues its drive into Libya. Gambut was the enemies’ chief supply dump in the area, and enemy troops at Halfaya and Sidi Omar zones tire now virtually cut off from supplies. The water pipe from Bardia was also cut with Indians attacking from the east and New Zealanders, to the west in the rear of the enemy in the i-ialfaya area putting up a great fight. The action is described as “most extraordinary” by military circles. Details of the fighting are lew as communication is possible only by plane. It is known, however, that a considerable amount of hand-to-hand fighting has probably taken place as both sides lost tanks in the “gigantic dogfight” and infantry are brought to action.

It is emphasised that the enemy, is not endeavouring' to extricate his forces at present, but is fighting with determination to find out which side is superior, but the New Zealanders are moving rapidly under improved weather conditions.