EXCHANGE OF SHELLS

Wairarapa Times-Age, 16 March 1942, Page 4

EXCHANGE OF SHELLS

REPORTED IN LIBYA AT LEAST ONE ENEMY TANK KNOCKED OUT, SUCCESSFUL BRITISH AIR ACTIVITY. (British Official Wireless.) (Received This Day, 11.30 a.m.) RUGBY, March 15. Although patrol activity in Libya has been slightly greater in the last few days, it is stated in authoritative circles that no special meaning, such as preparation by Rommel for an offensive, can be attached to it. A Middle East war communique states: “The day was again marked by a considerable exchange of artillery fire between our fighting patrols and those of the enemy, during which at least one enemy tank was knocked out. Our air forces again provided support for these operations.” Details of air operations are given in a R.A.F. communique, which states: — “Our fighters and bombers were active over Cyrenaica yesterday. The enemy landing ground at Martuba was attacked and two Messerschmitt 109 s and a' Macchi 202 were shot down’. Other enemy aircraft were severely damaged. Objectives at Mekili, Benghazi and Tripoli were raided during Friday night. “Yesterday enemy aircraft continued to raid Malta. One Messerschmitt 109 was shot down by our fighters and one by anti-aircraft fire. Three of our aircraft are missing.”