"Behind Enemy Lines: Raff’s Tunisian Task Force and" Topic

… Early Allied Cooperation in North Africa, 1942–43

"ighty years ago, inexperienced Anglo-American forces nervously waded ashore on the beaches of North Africa. The amphibious Allied landings known as Operation Torch constituted the first American combat deployment across the Atlantic in World War II. It was also the first time American and French soldiers had fought one another since the unofficial naval "Quasi-War" of 1798-1800, and, to that point in history, the largest amphibious invasion the world had ever seen. 

The landings went better than anticipated. Within three days, the invasion's task forces secured their primary objectives. Vital ports, rail infrastructure, supply depots, and roads across the Maghreb lay safely in Allied hands. Disobeying orders from Vichy, French North African military commanders agreed to help the Anglo-Americans drive the Axis from the African continent. Almost immediately, the three newly-minted allies turned their gaze east to Tunisia—a prize they hoped to capture before the enemy arrived in force…"

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Armand

Interesting story – did not know about the good Colonel!

A good find. Thanks, Armand -- I always appreciate these lesser-known stories of the war, and Tunisia is one of my favorite theaters to study.

The link provided tells the story from the perspective of Raff's troopers from the U.S. Army Airborne's 503rd Parachute Infantry Regiment.

For those who are interested, here is another account of some of the same actions described in the link Tango provided:
link

In this case we see the story told from the perspective of Company B of the U.S. Army's 701st TD battalion. You will see them mentioned as key participants in seizing Gafsa in the first link.

I always appreciate when I can find more than one account of any given event. No two participants see the same battle.

-Mark
(aka: Mk 1)

Glad you enjoyed it boys…

Armand