George Frederick Howe

The first volume of four published by the Office of the Chief of Military History on the United States Army in the Mediterranean during the Second World War. Although General Marshall was opposed, not wanting to divert forces from the anticipated strike across the Channel, presumably in 1943, he was overruled by President Roosevelt, who preferred an operation in 1942.

The operation was on a large scale, at least geographically, with landings in Morocco (as a hedge against possible intervention against the Allies by Spain) as well as in Algeria. But the real prize was in Tunisia. The British and Americans thrust toward Tunis but were unable to take it before the winter rains set in. Then Rommel showed up, having been driven all the way from El Alamein in Egypt. Rommel — and von Arnim, the commander of 5th Panzer Army, which had been established for the defense of northern Tunisia — launched a surprise assault against the Americans, but were unable to agree on objectives. They came close to destroying the American First Armored Division, but Rommel was unable to break through at Kasserine Pass. Thereafter, Rommel left the theater as things began to go rapidly downhill for the Axis. The end for the Axis came in May, 1943.

A solid study, much worth reading.… (meer)