New Zealanders Under Fire To The Last

Northern Advocate, 17 May 1943, Page 4

New Zealanders Under Fire To The Last

(Delayed Cable.) WEST OF ENFIDAVILLE, May 9. Even with the fall of Tunis and the surrender of the troops in the north by the thousand, the enemy continues to hold out desperately on the Enfidaville line. In their “leaning” role—that is, making their presence felt without undertaking any major engagement— New Zealanders have had to face heavy shelling and mortar bombing as severe as any they have experienced. Last night the enemy even attacked a small section of positions held by New Zealanders overlooking the Pont du FahS’Enfidaville read. German infantry were found to be infiltrating through our most forward positions, and later a strong attack was launched, supported by a considerable number of guns and multiple mortars, which rain down bombs at a terrific rate. Men in these forward positions managed to extricate themselves with few casualties, and the enemy was held. On the left flank, strong enemy fighting patrols were active, but no attack was delivered. Maoris Raid Gun Nests In daylight today, a company of Maoris split up into patrols and went out in search of enemy' mortar and machine-gun posts. They had a most successful day, capturing several mortars and enough machine-guns for one to each man, and bringing back about 70 prisoners. They suffered no casualties. Meanwhile the enemy continued to hold their mortar position they had been occupying. Our artillery continues tc give the enemy little respite.