7 December 1941

After a bad day on 6 December 1941, Rommel visited General Crüwell at DAK HQ. The General pointed out the danger from the British forces to their south and that the Axis forces were low on supplies. The British were stronger on the ground and still had air superiority, which made movement difficult. Rommel made the decision to withdraw to the previously prepared Gazala line. Gazala had been built as a defensive position, facing east, as long ago as May 1941, when they realized that Tobruk was not going to be easily reduced. The plan was to withdraw four Italian infantry divisions into the position. The Italian mobile corps would be positioned to protect the south end. The Afrika Korps would be to their southwest. Meanwhile, General Ritchie had ordered General Norrie to advance, finally. This is based on the account in Vol.III of the Official History.