Battleground 323. Tunisgrad: Part II - Operation Torch and the Race for Tunis
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Sep 10, 2025 Dive into the chaotic beginnings of the Tunisian campaign, where the Allies aimed to outsmart the Axis forces but struggled against swift German defenses. Explore the critical battles at Tebourba and Medjez el Bab, revealing the brutal realities faced by inexperienced troops. Discover the fierce struggle for Longstop Hill, a pivotal position that came at a bloody cost. Finally, uncover the strategic blunders that tilted early victories in favor of the Axis and shaped the trajectory of the whole campaign.
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Torch Was A Strategic Compromise
- Operation Torch landed at three ports because Allies lacked air and naval superiority to go closer to Tunisia.
- The plan hoped for quick French cooperation but risked stiff Vichy resistance and long supply lines.
Surprise, Not Reconnaissance, Won The Beaches
- Many Torch beach landings were improvised and relied on surprise rather than detailed reconnaissance.
- Combined Operations pilotage and beach intelligence were not yet available, making many landings a 'wing and a prayer'.
Race For Tunis Began At Once
- The 'race for Tunis' began immediately because Axis forces moved into Tunisia fast.
- Axis airlift and short supply lines gave Germans an early advantage despite Allied landings.
