On this episode of Our American Stories in February American soldiers met the German Army at Kasserine Pass in North Africa and discovered just how unprepared they were for the war ahead Units became separated communications failed intelligence broke down and inexperienced commanders struggled to respond as German forces tore through American positions The defeat was humiliating costly and impossible to ignore The late historian Stephen Ambrose shares how the defeat at Kasserine forced Dwight D Eisenhower to make difficult changes as the Americans learned how to fight a very different kind of war Support the show https www ouramericanstories [... more]

The United States' decision to concentrate on defeating Germany first in World War II was a strategic choice that brought with it a question of when and how to execute the plan. The Americans and the British agreed to focus on Europe, but the British were not ready to attack Germany in 1942, leading to the decision to invade North Africa instead. The operation, known as Torch, was a complex and challenging endeavor that involved coordinating with the French and dealing with the complexities of the French colonial army. [... more]

The Battle of Casseron Pass in 1943 marked the first major defeat for the United States Army in World War II. Led by General Rommel, the German forces were able to break through the American lines and inflict heavy casualties. However, the Americans were able to regroup and eventually turn the tide of the battle, thanks in part to the leadership of General George Patton. This story is a testament to the resilience and determination of the American people, and highlights the importance of learning from past mistakes in order to achieve success. [... more]

The first battle the United States Army fought in the Second World War began on Saint Valentine's Day of 1943 at a place called Casseron Pass in North Africa. The U.S. Army did not do well at the Battle of Casseron Pass due to inadequate training and a lack of preparation. The battle provided valuable lessons for the American Army, including the need for rigorous training and realistic tactics. [... more]

The Battle of Kasserine Pass in North Africa during World War II was a pivotal moment in American history, marking the first major defeat of the US Army. Historian Stephen Ambrose recounts the story of how the US learned valuable lessons about intelligence, training, and leadership, ultimately emerging stronger and more resilient. [... more]