GRIM FIGHTING

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 87, Issue 41, 19 February 1943, Page 5

GRIM FIGHTING

AMERICAN ATTEMPT TO STEMTHRUST PAINFUL LOSSES (Reed. 11.35 p.m.) London, Feb. 18. American armoured forces are fighting grimly around Sbeitla In an attempt to stein Rommel’s powerful thrust. Berlin is now claiming that the Axis forces have the complete initiative in southern Tunisia and advanced southwestwards as far as the western borders of Shott el Jerid. Reuter’s Algiers correspondent says the Allied line, which formerly ran north and south parallel to the coast, now bends back south-west along its southern half, where the Allies hold positions in front of a series of ridges which offer excellent defensive possibilities, but withdrawal to them would probably mean giving up Feriana, 40 miles north of Gafsa.

Even If Rommel stopped at the line of ridges, it means that he has pretty well spoiled any chance we might have had of cutting through to the sea, says the Columbia Broadcasting System’s Algiers correspondent. It also means that he has weakened us a great deal in southern Tunisia, for indications are that our losses are considerable. We have lost some useful positions and, much more painful, men and tanks, but it does not mean that we have seriously endangered the campaign. Rommel's ultimate chances are no better.

The British United Press correspondent in North Africa points out that the loss of three airfields increases the Allied air force problems, but it does not necessarily help the Germans. Two of these aerodromes are likely to remain within range of Allied artillery, while the third was merely an advanced post for a small group of fighters. A French headquarters communique states:—“There is noting of importance to report from central Tunisia. Our troops in southern Tunisia, after the evacuation of Gafsa, have taken up new positions in the region ot Feriana without interference."