Sir
Richard O'Connor, during
World War II, was a
British Army Major-General who commanded the
Western Desert Force.
O'Connor's plan to defend
Egypt was to use a screen of light
tanks and
armored cars, supported by
artillery, to delay the
Italians. In command of this delaying force was
Brigadier General Gott. Meanwhile, the main force was to retreat towards
Mersa Matruh and the
Baggush Box.
O'Connor was the field commander for
Operation Compass.