The U.S. Army's upset at Sidi Bou Zid was to continue for several days. In what became known as the Battle of the Kasserine Pass they suffered a major reverse as they were outmanouvred and outflanked by the veterans of 21st Panzer Division, urged on by Field Marshal Rommel.

Colonel Thomas D. Drake of the 168th Infantry1 was left in command of a mixed group of about 400 men. They were isolated from other U.S. units and were trying to make their way back to U.S. lines by walking across country. As they attempted to cross a road they were fired upon by a German motorised column coming up the road.

It was here that they had to make a last stand.