Battleground 327. Tunisgrad: Part IV - Victory in Africa
Sep 24, 2025
The climax of the North African campaign unfolds, with Allied forces converging on Axis troops in Tunisia. Key battles like Montgomery’s breakthrough and the decisive pincer movement at Wadi Akarit are examined. The impact of Patton's leadership and the engaging story of Popski's private army add depth. The discussion highlights how strategic air superiority and logistics lead to the surrender of over 250,000 Axis soldiers, marking a pivotal moment in the war. This victory signals the beginning of the end for Hitler's ambitions.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Patton Rebooted US II Corps
- George S. Patton revitalized the US II Corps by demanding aggression, training, and initiative after earlier failures at Kasserine and Sidi Bouzid.
- His leadership improved American combat effectiveness despite being soon reassigned to Sicily.
Popski's Private Army Made The Difference
- Vladimir Peniakov ('Popski') ran a tiny intelligence network that helped Montgomery by using local tribesmen for vital reconnaissance.
- Popski's information enabled Monty to outflank the Mareth Line via the Tobarga Gap and win at Mareth.
A Single Officer Turned Wadi Akarit
- Subadar Lal Bahadur Thapa led a small Gurkha assault that cleared key escarpments at Wadi Akarit using kukris and sheer determination.
- His action opened the corridor that forced Messe to withdraw and earned Thapa the Victoria Cross.
