July 1942

North Africa

The 2 panzer divisions resume their efforts in both the morning and afternoon. They are opposed both on the ground and from the air and these attempts fail as well. In the morning Auchinleck orders the New Zealanders to attack northward. Their assault falls on the artillery of the Ariete Division which has finally taken station on the German flank. The Italians collapse with little resistance losing 44 guns and 350 prisoners.

Rommel's airmen finally come up at 1835. He makes one last effort to break through sending a large formation of Stukas against the El Alamein 'box', hoping they would shatter it as had been done at Tobruk.

Once more the South Africans play a major role. No. 1 SAAF Squadron shoots down 9 Stukas and claim 4 more in pursuing them.

Rommel complains bitterly to his superiors but to no avail. He calls off his offensive due to lack of resources.