Summary: Documentary shows non-operational aspects of life of Afrika Korps men from preparation for tropical posting to arrival in Libyan Desert.
Description: Print lacks opening titles and may lack middle reel. Reel 1. Preparations for Africa service begin in Germany where soldiers are medically examined before receiving new helmets, boots and uniforms. Tanks and trucks leave base to be transported south by train to Italy. Halt is made on German side of Brenner Pass, where troops repair to NSV refreshment room and wash themselves beside already lush vegetation. Train now continues south through Italy, greeted by "Mussolini's youth" who wave at passengers in train bearing swastika flag. Soldiers enjoy good meal at Rome station; smiling Italian girl offers apples to the German ally. Journey continues to Naples past stock shot views of Southern Italy, including lava from Mount Vesuvius. Soldiers detrain and receive foretaste of Africa in pre-embarkation camp: menu written up, general camp life, blossoming trees, sing-song with accordion. Tanks (Pzkpfw IIIDs), petrol drums and trucks are loaded aboard at dockside, and windows covered to prevent glistening. Men now embark, all wearing lifejackets, and ship steams out. (Abrupt end to reel.)
Reel 3. Film resumes in Libyan Desert. Motorcyclist brings message to vehicle park, causing company commander to brief his men for expedition to Tripoli harbour to collect munitions and food. Trucks pass along coastal road to Tripoli. Here supplies are unloaded by Arabs, at speed to avoid risk of aerial attack. German trucks head back to base along desert road, pausing for a brief halt. Special precautions against sun and sand are taken by men who cover tyres, exhaust and windows. Water drawn from well is purified by tablet and meal is meanwhile prepared by field kitchen. Journey soon resumes and when destination in middle of desert is reached, petrol drums and ammunition boxes are unloaded and camouflaged at oasis. Film concludes over montage of German tanks and unit symbol of palm to sound of Afrika Korps Song.
