15. Battle of Kasserine Pass (1943)
In February 1943, during World War II, the Battle of Kasserine Pass in Tunisia marked the first major engagement between U.S. and German forces. German Field Marshal Erwin Rommel’s Panzer Army Africa launched a surprise attack through the pass, exploiting the inexperience of American troops. The U.S. II Corps, under General Lloyd Fredendall, faced disarray due to inadequate coordination and leadership. Despite initial setbacks, the Allies regrouped, and the Axis forces eventually withdrew. This battle exposed significant flaws in American command and logistics, leading to substantial reforms in training and strategy. For more information, visit the National WWII Museum. (nationalww2museum.org)
