CENTRE OF GRAVITY

Wairarapa Times-Age, 24 November 1941, Page 6

CENTRE OF GRAVITY

EAST OF TOBRUK ACCORDING TO CAIRO COMMUNIQUE. NEW ZEALANDERS’ ADVANCE. (British Official Wireless.) (Received This Day, 11.15 a.m.) RUGBY, November 23. The occupation of Bardia by New Zealand forces is reported in a Middle East war communique from Cairo, issued today. The communique states: — “The centre of gravity in the main tank battle between the British and German armoured forces now appears to be about Sidi Rezegh.. Throughout the night the battle continued without cessation, and it is continuing this morning. Meanwhile New Zealand forces, in face of exceptional climatic difficulties, continued yesterday their advance from their initial positions west of Sidi Omar. Rapidly capturing Sidi Azelz and Capuzzo, these forces pushed on westward around the Trigh-Capuzzo Road. By yesterday evening they had reached positions, south of Gambut, leaving a detachment to occupy Bardia, which was reported clear of the enemy.

While these operations were proceeding, Indian troops have captured Sidi Omar and Nuovo and are gradually extending the area of their penetration in the rear of the defensive positions held by the enemy between H’alfaya and Sidi Omar. Continuing their advance against opposition, the British forces from Tobruk again captured many hundreds of prisoners, of which fifty per cent are Germans. Continuous support was given by our air forces throughout the day. Low-flying bomber and fighter attacks were made on enemy'tanks, armoured fighting vehicles and motor transport and much damage was inflicted.