AFRICA FREED [Main Title]

Film about the Tunisian campaign, concentrating on the British forces involved.

Allied objectives were: (1) maintain existing bases; (2) assist Russia by attacks in the West. Strategic importance of North Africa - a springboard into Europe. Complexity and scope of preparations for the expedition. Bombing of Italian supply bases. Convoys and landings. The film contains a comparatively detailed account of the ensuing campaign. Thematic elements include - (1) The superior fighting qualities of British soldiers, "Throughout the war our men had held the initiative in patrols and fighting at night." (2) Superior Allied strategy and generalship - the German was outwitted. Allied advances surpass the German blitzkrieg. Failed Allied offensives are usually described as attritive attacks producing long-term strategic benefits. (3) Integration of Allied land and air commands. (4) Importance of forward air bases and role of air power. Extinction of the Luftwaffe enables British armour to move freely - parading as if on Piccadilly. (5) Role of RE in building new roads, etc. (6) Scale of the final German defeat. Unconditional surrender. No naval evacuation - no "last glorious episode lightened the hour of their defeat". Some Germans have lost the will to fight. (7) Allies as liberators welcomed by the French and native populations. Decent life begins again. Africa freed, Europe that much nearer freedom.

35mm