The miscalculation

The order for the 4th Armoured Brigade to move forward was made without realizing that the brigade could not be supplied in that forward of a position. As we have seen, only Robert Crisp's squadron (C Squadron, 3rd RTR) with some Royal Dragoons and other troops were able to make a small attack. Robert was severely wounded and the attempt was called off. They small force pulled back to the brigade, which was in turn, pulled back further to refuel. Because of their low fuel situation and the inability to get fuel to them, the desired attack from the west on the Gazala position never happened, other than Robert's small force. 13th Corps was in a bad position, because the 4th Indian Division had been committed, believing that the 4th Armoured Brigade attack would occur. A column from 7th Armoured Brigade was sent to Tmimi, on the road, but they were so short of fuel that they quickly had to withdraw without really accomplishing anything. This is based on the account in Vol.III of the Official History.