INDIAN DIVISION

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXX, Issue 21066, 10 April 1943, Page 3

INDIAN DIVISION

FEATS IN TUNISIA HELPED N.Z. TROOPS MARETH LINE BATTLE (N.Z.E.F. Official War Correspondent.) CAIRO, April 8 The Indian Division is fighting in the forefront of the battle in Tunisia with the Eighth Army. The division played an important part in operations against the Mareth Line positions. It has operated with conspicuous dash and vigour and its patrol work has been of the highest order. The Gurkhas used their kukris to good effect at night. It is officially announced from Algiers that the Indian Division is fighting alongside two British and one New Zealand Divisions and Greek and Fighting French troops. The Indians co-operated in protecting the flank of the New Zealanders in the Matmatas and secured the gorge enabling reinforcements and supplies to be rushed through for the New Zealanders making a flank attack against General Rommel’s positions. Before securing the pass the Indians had to take two mountain peaks which were known to be held by the enemy. After heavy fighting on crags 15,000 ft. up in the dark, the oositions were occupied. Further progress was impeded by demolitions. Heroic work was done by the sappers who cleared the road of rocks and mines. The enemy retreated from the post and over 400 prisoners were taken by the Indians. Once again the Indian troops played a part in the smashing victory over General Rommel, as in the past, at El Alamein and other places.