#13 - Tobruk Break-out (21-22 November 1941) - PzC 04 Tobruk '41

Tobruk, 21 November 1941: Preparations inside the Fortress of Tobruk, for both it's continued defense, and it's offensive role in Operation Crusader, had been ongoing for months. Gone were the Australians, at least most of them, the heroes of the Tobruk siege, replaced by three British and one Polish brigade. The break-out operation was to take place only after the defeat of the German panzers by 7th Armoured Division. Events of 20 November were confusing and, in the end, 30th Corps believed the 4th and 22nd Armoured Brigades had accomplished this task, the German armor was believed to be in full retreat after suffering heavy losses when, in fact, they had withdrawn to replenish their ammunition. The code word for the break-out was issued, and the 14th, and 16th Infantry Brigades, supported by the 31st Tank Brigade, would start operations early on 21 November. Their attack carried them directly into the German and Italian formations that had been preparing for the Tobruk assault. Though a deep penetration was made, the force fell well short of their objective of el Duda, and the planned link-up with the 7th Armoured Brigade attacking from Sidi Rezegh.