Action at Kilometer Post 3 DTO (id:#60866)

(Afrikakorps - AK002 Benghazi Handicap ID: AK 11)

Sebcha El Seghira, Libya 1941-03-31 (5 others)

Overview:

Shortly after Rommel arrived in Tripoli, offensive action was on his mind—contrary to his standing orders to eschew any offensive action for the time being. The Desert Fox began his first offensive in North Africa with a ‘reconnaissance probe’ on 31 March, targeting the British advanced positions by Maaten Biscer. At 0600 hours a flying column consisting of medium tanks, armored cars, and a single 88mm gun towed by a prime-mover left their assembly area nine kilometers to the west of El Agheila. The scratch-force promptly advanced along the Via Balbia until, at about 0800 hours, contact was made with the enemy. Two troops of British cruiser tanks were encountered near Kilometer 3 on the Via Balbia. The Germans immediately moved into combat formations, the ‘88’ was un-limbered and went into action, dispersing the enemy tank formation without hitting any tanks. A running fight then took place for some six kilometers, concluding after the British made another attack, only to be driven off by the column.... - - - - -All armor (with a towed 88). The British have one of the wonderful "Smoke Only" Close Support tanks along with 3 nothing to write home about tanks. Other than the 88, the Germans don't have great armor either.

Defender: British (Elements 5th RTR)  

Errata (source)