A gripping account of the Allied disaster at Kasserine Pass, where inexperienced American troops clashed with Rommel’s battle-hardened Afrika Korps in North Africa. Perfect for readers of Martin Blumenson, Major Vincent M. Carr, Jr. (USAF), and Norman Gelb.
When American troops landed on the beaches of Tunisia as part of Operation TORCH in 1942, it was envisaged that a swift victory would soon follow. Those who made this confident prediction were to be proved sadly wrong. Ill-prepared for desert warfare, the American troops and their commanders were woefully lacking in experience, discipline, adequate weaponry, and, in some cases, the moral and physical courage to face the dreaded Afrika Korps. The US Army was forced into a humiliating retreat.
In this book, Charles Whiting draws on his extensive knowledge of the major events of World War Two, the key personalities involved, and thorough research to present an analytical account of the tragic events as they unfolded. He delves in depth into the reasons behind the command decisions made, the disastrous outcome, and the repercussions. The result is a thorough yet gripping read for anyone with an interest in military history.
The events at Kasserine marked a turning point in World War Two, bringing together for the first time the US commanders who would go on to fight the war to its finish: ‘Ike’ Eisenhower and George Patton. It also gave the ailing Rommel a final opportunity for glory — a chance to regain Hitler’s favour and his fast-fading reputation in the eyes of the German people.
