A Panzer I command tank (kleiner Befehlswagen)[1] being unloaded in Tripoli, March 1941

8 March 1941

Arrival and Departure of Subordinated Troops

Arrived in Tripoli:

Regimental Staff, Pz.Regiment 5, II./Pz.Regiment 5[2]

The Commander goes into the forward line and to the blocking position at the salt lakes.[3] Around midday he instructs the commander of Div.Ariete regarding his new sector and discusses all measures to be taken. During the evening General Rommel returns to Tripoli.

Notes

[1] This command vehicle had a special superstructure to accommodate radio sets and was only equipped with a  light machine gun. It equipped battalion HQs.

[2] Pz.Regiment 5 was the armoured force element of 5.lei.Division with eight tank companies in two battalions. II./Pz.Regiment 5 was its second battalion, with companies 5, 6, 7, and 8.

[3] The salt lakes at el Agheila created a natural blocking position, because they could not be crossed easily or at all by motorised forces. They therefore channeled any possible advance.