Tunis 1943: Operation Vulcan and the First Army's Final Offensive (Campaign #442) [9781472875211]

Overview

In a series of bitter but often forgotten battles fought in the hills and plains west of Tunis, the British First Army began its final offensive to destroy the 5th Panzer Army.

The road to Tunis had been a long and difficult one for the Allies. British General Kenneth Anderson had pushed his men to capture the city before Axis forces could arrive. After several difficult battles, the First Army had been sufficiently reinforced by April 1943, and it was time to launch the final series of operations to destroy the Italian and German factions left in Tunisia, which would ultimately result in 250,000 Axis soldiers surrendering.

Historian Ian G. Mitchell explores the fierce fighting in North Africa, delving into Anderson's movements and General Hans-Jürgen von Arnim's plans for the Germans, as well as the US's involvement. With detailed maps, period images and stunning artwork, this book covers the actions at Banana Ridge, the Basin, Longstop Hill, Gueriat el Atach, Jebel Bou Aoukaz and Cactus Farm. While the fighting outside Tunis has been overlooked, it proved an action of great bravery, with four Victoria Crosses being awarded.