#11a - First Tank Clash (19 November 1941) - PzC 04 Tobruk '41

Gabr Saleh, 19 November 1941: Concern for the protection of the infantry formations of 13th Corps, from the threat posed by the German panzer forces, caused the Operation Crusader planners to restrict the initial operations of 4th Armoured Brigade. The brigade, brought up to full strength with new American Stuart tanks, was to remain in the area of Gabr Saleh, bridging the gap between 7th Armoured Division and the New Zealanders. This area had been under the observation of the German 3rd Recon Battalion and, after some minor skirmishes in the morning, they withdrew to the northeast, being pursued by the King's Dragoon Guards and 3rd Royal Tank Regiment, with 5th Royal Tank Regiment not far behind. This action was significant only because it served to dilute the brigade's strength, when it should have remained concentrated. In the early afternoon, Kampfgruppe Stephan, and all the tanks of the 21st Panzer Division, fell on the 8th Hussars. Engaged in a close range melee, the two sides, including 5th Royal Tank Regiment, who was able to reinforce, battled until dark, with the 4th Brigade retreating to laager for the night. Losses were disproportionate due, in no small part, to the German combined arms tactics that would haunt the British throughout the Crusader battles.