America Enters The War

Stupendous events heralded the end of the year 1941. The German armies had reached the gates of Moscow. Hitler had proclaimed that his eastern war was over. Suddenly, without any declaration of war, the Japanese made their treacherous attack on the American Fleet in Pearl Harbour. England at once joined America in war on Japan. Hitler and Mussolini, elated by the Japanese success, promptly declared Germany and Italy at war with the United States. Critical and anxious tines lay ahead for the Allies, but ultimate victory lay beyond.

Retreat to the Gazala Line — January 1942

The Desert Army's advanced troops were only a few days at Agheila when, on 21st January, Rommel again attacked. This time the withdrawal halted on the Gazala Line.

The 2nd Battalion (Lieutenant-Colonel O. N. D. Sismey) only arrived in Egypt early in January. It was part of the 1st Armoured Division, whose units were being dispatched to the front as they became ready. The Battalion marched at once, and accomplished the 1,000 miles successfully with personnel inexperienced in desert navigation and driving—a severe test. It arrived at El Algheila and took over the forward observation on the morning of the German attack, and it acted as rearguard during the retreat to Gazala.

The 1st Battalion, now commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel G. de Bruyne, was ready for service by the middle of March, when it rejoined the 7th Armoured Division in reserve.

The 9th Battalion, now commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel C. E. M. Grenville Grey, was also ready and moved up to the front early in May.

By this time motor battalions had been equipped with sixteen 6-pounder anti-tank guns, and each company had a section of medium machine guns and a section of 3-inch mortars.

Battle Of Gazala - Retreat To Egypt 26th May to 30th June 1942

General Ritchie, who was now Commander of the Eighth Army, decided to stand on the defensive and to await attack on the Gazala — Bir Hachim Line, which had been provided with localities for all-round defence, known as "boxes," at intervals behind the line of observation. This position was held by four divisions. The 1st and 7th Armoured Divisions were in reserve. Rommel attacked on 26th May and after several days' severe fighting turned the British left flank and penetrated the centre.