On the Eastern Front… The Soviet offensive in the south continues. The bridge over the Don River at Kalach is captured by Soviet forces from the north. After crossing the bridge, the advance units link with the tanks forces of 51st Army and the Soviet encirclement of the German forces, in front of Stalingrad, 6th Army and most of 4th Panzer Army, begins. At this time, the Soviet's believe that the German forces are about 85,000. In fact an army of 300,000 has been encircled. Near Raspopinskaya, five division from the Romanian 3rd Army surrender.
In North Africa… After heavy fighting near Agedabia, the Axis troops fall back to El Aghelia. General Montgomery halts his forces advance for reorganization. They have chased Rommel's troops almost 600 miles in 14 days. The British are criticized for over caution in the operation, however, German booby traps and demolition's have caused delays.