Index
–A–
Abbott, Lt-Col J. N., 169, 193, 195, 221, 222, 232, 235
Abbott, Lt-Col J. E., 289, 291, 295, 302
Abbreviations, 318-19
Abiar, El (Map p. 269), 266, 267, 272
Italian aggression, 21
British aid to rebels, 96, 282n
British offensive, 112, 122, 282, 283
Achdar, Jebel (Sketch p. 243), 146, 241, 249, 253, 257, 260, 263, 265, 266, 283
Acroma (Sketch p. 209), 209, 214
Adem, El (Sketch p. 209), 145, 155, 209, 210, 212, 215, 217, 220, 223, 224, 225, 227, 232, 234, 236, 238
Agedabia (Map p. 269), 266, 274, 286
Agheila, El (Sketch p. 279), 280n, 281n, 285, 286, 294
Agrad, El (Sketch p. 134), 136
AIF News, 69n
origins and work of, 75
Ain Mara (Map p. 250; Sketch p. 258), 255, 257, 260
Aircraft
deliveries to Balkan States, 96n
role in war, 127
See Also Australian Air Force, British Air Force, German Air Force, Italian Air Force
Airente, Fort (Map p. 218; Sketch p. 234), 231, 236
Air Raids, Italian
on Egypt and Palestine, 109n, 124,
at Bardia, 151
combined with German on Benghazi, 282, 283
Alanbrooke, Field Marshal Viscount, 78, 104n
Albania, 113, 114, 115, 142, 207
operations in, 117-18
Albury, 41
Alcohol
rum issue at Bardia, 164n
captured at Bardia, 201
Alexandria (Sketch p. 124), 79, 94, 121, 124, 125, 143, 145, 162, 207, 310
anti-aircraft defence of, 109n
Allaquiya, Bir El (Sketch p. 134), 136
Allen, Maj-Gen A. S., 40n, 44, 68n, 69n, 72, 73-4, 75, 76, 126, 148, 156, 157, 158, 173, 189, 192, 193, 212n, 214, 215-16, 217, 219, 220, 224n, 223, 229, 230, 235, 242n
estimate of, 47-8
selects 16 Bde CO’s, 48-9
his responsibilities in Palestine, 76
reaction to proposed ban on German broadcasts, 105
Allenby, Field Marshal Viscount, 77
Amenities
in Aust, 68
in Palestine, 74-6
Amico, General, 203
Amiriya (Sketch p. 124), 124, 125, 288, 303
Ammunition
Australian: quantities sent to Britain, 89
artillery, required for Bardia, 156n.
Italian: ineffectiveness of, 183n, 200n
Anderson, Lt-Col R. K., 265
Andrew, Brig B. J., 102
Antelat (Map p. 269), 266, 267, 268, 270
Antonelli, General, 203
Anzac Corps, in Greece, 281
Aoos (Voioussa) River, 117
Aphis, British gunboat, 161
Apollonia (Sketch p. 243), 261-2, 265
Arab, The
relations with Great Britain, 70, 80, 94
relations with the Jews, 80
looting of Italian settlements, 261
Argentino, General, 203
Armstrong, Pte R. A., 219
Army Quarterly, 11
Arnold, Capt E., 179
Arras, 129n
Arthur, Brig A. E., 188-9, 195n
Artillery
strength in Australia, 40
Aust production of, 41-2, 77n, 88
shortages in British Army, 80
design and tactical employment of, 129
supporting 6th Division at Bardia, 145, 155, 158,
compared to scale of support in France, 1917-18, 158n
lack of support for 17th Bde at Bardia, 183n
supporting 19th Bde at Tobruk, 225
at Giarabub, 302n
Anti-aircraft, cost of, 25
Australian production of, 88
Anti-tank, creation of brigade anti-tank coys, 146,
at Bardia, 172.
Italian:
captured at Sidi Barrani, 138, 203n
comparison with British, 200n
at Derna, compared to 1918 standards, 252
captured at Beda Fomm and in Cyrenaican campaign, 272
captured at Giarabub, 303
Atlantic Ocean
naval strength in, 4
convoy protection, 70
Attolico, Signor, Italian ambassador in Berlin, 94n
Australforce, see AIF
Australia, Australian battle cruiser, 69
Australia
between the wars, 1-32
effect of Washington Treaty, 4
response to Turkish crisis, 6, 7
obtains Imperial conference, 7
Defence policy, 9-10, 17, 18-20, 23, 31-2
Labour Government in, 12-15
National Register in, 27
declares war, 33
effect of declaration in, 36, 36-7
and Japan, 34, 35, 38, 42-3, 82, 87, 100
awaits advice from Britain on raising expeditionary force, 35
raises expeditionary force, 38-9,
and destination of AIF, 64, 65, 86
aid to Britain, 35-6, 83, 89, 90
munitions production of, 41-2, 88-9
national sentiments and links with Britain, 56-7
reintroduces compulsory training, 63
suspends AIF recruiting, 87
Greek and Italian population of, 114
defects in educational system, 304n
Australian Air Force, 10
strength and expenditure on, 14n
Squadrons, No. 3 (Army Co-operation), 30
in the Middle East, 123-4, 133, 198, 211, 218, 243, 249, 282n
Australian Army:
expenditure on, 9, 14n, 23n, 25
equipment of, 10, 20, 40-41, 88-9
compulsory training abolished, 12-13
reintroduced, 63
development of, 1935-39, 24-30
Squires’ report on, 27-8
failure to produce efficient peace-time force, 31-2
measures on outbreak of war, 34-5
lack of effective links with AIF, 52
two-army problem, 87
liaison with War Office, 93n
– Commands:
– Military districts: 7th, 28n
– Darwin Mobile Force, 29n
– Infantry
Melbourne University Rifles, 61n
15th, 61n
46th, 61n
– Volunteer Defence Corps, origin and formation, 87
Australian Comforts Fund:
at Bardia, 152
Australian Government:
Board of Business Administration, 42
War Cabinet, creation of, 41
losses in aircraft accident, 89-90
Australian Imperial Force
First, casualties in, 2
effect of traditions on national character, 57
lack of understanding of importance in 1914-18, 65n
links with Second AIF, 51-2
high standards of, 126
relations with British Army, 284n
Churchill’s praise of, 309
1st Division, at Bullecourt, 158n
Second, Labour opposition to, 37, 38
decision to create “Special Force,” 39
equipment, 39-43, 64, 88-9, 100, 125-6
manpower restrictions, 40, 55-6, 58n, 62n
lack of effective links with Home array, 52
type of recruits, 54-9
physical standards, 87n
destination of, 64, 65, 77, 86-7
expansion of, 64, 82-3, 86, 90, 122-3
relations with British Army, 73-4, 78-9, 105, 199-200, 284n
British establishments adopted, 82-3
Charter of GOC, 100-1
value of campaign in Cyrenaica, 203-5, 303-4
– Administrative HQ, establishment of, 102-3
decision to form, 82-3
arrival of GOC in Palestine, 99
problems of, 101-5
concentration in Middle East, 123
replaces XIII Corps in Cyrenaica, 282. 284,
withdrawn from, 285
– Australforce, in United Kingdom, 305-11
– Artillery:
anti-aircraft, use of field regiments and 2/4 Bn at Haifa, 109n
2/1st AA Regt, 51n
anti-tank regts : organisation and equipment, 53
2/1st, 5ln
anti-tank coys: 16th, 146
17th, 146
19th, 146
Field Regiments: organisation and equipment, 53
2/1st, in AA role at Haifa, 109n, 126
at Bardia, 145, 152n, 155, 158n, 159, 161, 191, 193, 196
at Tobruk, 218
advance to Benghazi, 255, 256, 267
2/2nd, 85
in Egypt, 126
at Bardia, 145, 148-9, 152, 154, 155, 158n, 161, 191, 195n,
raid on, 188-9
at Tobruk, 218
advance to Giovanni Berta, 259
advance to Benghazi, 264
2/3rd, 123
operations on frontier, 284
2/7th, 83n
2/8th, 83n
– Canteens Service, 68
establishment in Palestine, 75-6
– Cavalry Regiments: 6th, raising of, 49, 51n, 289
organisation and equipment, 52-3, 68
proposed role in Egypt, 103
at Bardia, 145, 146, 158, 170, 190, 192, 193, 195, 198
at Tobruk, 210, 216, 226, 230, 236-7,
utilisation of Italian tanks, 218-19
advance to Derna, 242, 243, 247
on the southern flank, 249, 250-2,
casualties, 252
advance to Giovanni Berta, 253, 255, 259
advance to Benghazi, 261-2, 264, 265-6
advance to frontier, 274
operations from Siwa, 288-293
at Giarabub, 295, 296, 298, 299, 302, 303,
casualties, 302n
– Engineers:
6 Div Engineers, selection of officers, 62n
at Bardia, 156
7 Div Engineers, at Giarabub, 303n
Field Companies:
2/1st, at Bardia, 150, 156n, 164-5, 166, 168
at Tobruk, 213n, 216, 219, 220, 221
2/2nd, selection of officers, 62n
at Tobruk, 214
2/3rd, in UK, 306
advance to Giovanni Berta, 255n, 256n
advance to Benghazi, 267
Field Park Companies, 2/1st, 306
– Forestry Companies, ill UK, 310-11
– Divisions:
6th
decision to raise, 39
equipment, 41, 50-1, 53, 62-3, 100, 125-6, 145-6, 162
selection of officers, 43-50, 62, 83,
calibre of, 204-5
organisation of, 51-3
type of recruits, 54-9
advance party, 68
first convoy, 68-9
in Palestine, 71-2, 81, 83, 95, 99
relations with British Army, 73-4
amenities, 74-6
reorganised on British establishment, 82-3
Mackay becomes GOC, 84
transfer to Egypt, 109
brigades of, 123
diversion of 18th Bde to UK, 293
impact of events in Europe, 124-5
discipline of, 125
at Tobruk, 211-2
at Derna, 254-5
training, 126, 130, 146, 204-5
relieves 4th Indian Division, 140, 143
advance to Bardia, 143-8
at Bardia, 149-52, 173,189, 196
plan of attack, 154-61
divisional orders, 159-61, 312-17
looting, 199-201, 238, 254, 261, 267
achievements at, 203-5
casualties, 203
advance to Tobruk, 207, 209, 210, 211n
support for, 218-19
casualties, 238n
staff changes, 239
advance to Derna, 242-3
at Derna, 249
transport shortages, 146, 162, 263
advance to Benghazi, 264, 272, 273
total casualties in Cyrenaica, 272n
deficiencies at end of campaign, 276n
earmarked for Greece, 283
operations on frontier, 284, 285
relieved by 9th Division, 286
value of campaign, 303-4
in UK, 306
7th
decision to form, 82
selection of officers, 83-4
use of vehicles by 6 Div in Cyrenaica, 146
earmarked for Greece, 283.
8th
decision to form, 86
use of brigades to complete divisions in Middle East, 123.
9th
decision to form, 87, 123, 310
earmarked for Cyrenaica, 283
relieves 6th Division, 286
– Infantry: Brigades:
16th
selection of officers, 47-9, 62
raising of, 51
embarkation, 68-9
first convoy, 71-2
in Palestine, 72-4, discipline, 74-5
proposed t.dot in Egypt, 103, 104
efficiency of, 126
advance to Bardia, 143-5
at Bardia, 146, 148, 156-7, 158-9, 160, 162, 163-72, 173, 181, 184, 189, 190, 192-5, 198, casualties, 203n
at Tobruk, 212, 215, 216, 217-8, 220-5, 232-3, 237, 239, 242n
casualties, 238n
anticipated role at Mechili, 249
move to Mechili cancelled, 263.
17th
selection of officers, 47-9, 62
raising of, 51
transfer to Palestine, 85-6
proposed tasks in Egypt, 103, 104
proposal to send to Crete, 120, 121
efficiency of, 126
at Bardia, 152-4, 156, 157-8, 159-60, 162, 172-89, 190-1, 196
casualties, 203n
at Tobruk, 211, 215, 217, 218, 220, 229-30, 233, 234-5
casualties, 238n
advance to Giovanni Berta, 242n, 247, 249, 253, 255, 257-60
advance to Benghazi, 263, halted, 264
operations on Tripolitanian frontier, 282, 284-6.
18th
selection of officers, 47-9
raising of, 51
allocation of battalions, 83n
movement overseas, 85-6
in UK, 99, 123, 306, 307, 308, 309, 310
transfer to Egypt, 123, 293, 310
role at Giarabub, 294-5
strength in mortars and machine-guns, 30In
19th
selection of commander, 83
formation of, 83n
incorporated in 6 Div, 123
proposed move by sea to Bardia, 143-4
at Bardia, 156, 189, 190, 191, 196-7
casualties, 203n
at Tobruk, 211, 212, 215, 217, 218, 220, 223, 225-9, 230-2, 233, 234, 235, 236-7
casualties, 238n
advance to Giovanni Berta, 255-7, 260
advance to Benghazi, 263, 264-5, 266-7, 272-5
Tripolitania, advance to frontier, 275
withdrawal to Gazala, 282.
20th
raising of, 83n
Aust, 123
relieves 17th Bde Cyrenaica, 286
21st
formation of, 83n
in Aust, 123.
22nd, in Aust, 123.
23rd, in Aust, 123.
24th, in Egypt, 123.
25th, 93n
transfer to Egypt, 310.
26th, Aust, 123.
27th, formation of, 123
– Infantry: Battalions: organisation and equipment, 52
at Bardia, 149-50, 156, 158, 163-6, 168-9, 170, 190, 192, 193-5, 198
casualties, 203n
at Tobruk, 212, 216, 217, 223, 224, 230, 235, 236
casualties, 238n.
2/2nd, 51
raising of, 59-60
at Bardia, 148, 149, 150, 152, 158, 160, 166-8, 170, 174, 189, 190, 192, 193, 198,
casualties, 203n
at Tobruk, 216-27, 220, 223-4, 229, 235, 236, 239,
at Bardia, 148, 149, 151, 152, 158, 164n, 168, 169-72, 174, 192, 193, 195, 198,
casualties, 203n
at Tobruk, 213, 216, 219, 220-25, 232-3, 235, 236,
casualties, 238n.
2/4th, 51
allotted to 19th Bde, 83n
at Haifa, 109n,
at Bardia, 196,
casualties, 203n
at Tobruk, 210, 211, 212, 225, 228, 229, 230-31, 236,
casualties, 238n
in the Wadi Derna, 246, 247, 248, 249, 250, 252, 257
advance to Benghazi, 267, 273, 274.
at Bardia, 159, 160, 172, 173-7, 179, 180, 181, 182, 183, 189, 190, 191, 193, 196,
casualties, 203n
at Tobruk, 217, 220, 223, 229-30, 233, 235n, 236,
casualties, 238n
advance to Giovanni Berra, 257, 258, 259
advance to Benghazi, 263,
halted, 264.
at Bardia, 152-4, 157-8, 159, 160, 183n, 184-8, 197-8,
at Tobruk, 216, 217, 220, 223, 224, 233, 234-5, 236,
casualties, 238n
advance to Giovanni Berta, 257, 258-9,
advance from, 261
advance to Benghazi, 263, 264, halted, 264.
at Bardia, 159, 160, 173, 174, 175, 177-80, 181-3, 189, 191, 197,
at Tobruk, 217, 224, 233, 235-6, 239,
casualties, 238n
advance to Giovanni Berta, 257, 258, 259, 260
advance to Benghazi halted, 264.
returned soldiers in, 58n
allotted to 19 Bde, 83n
casualties, 203n
at Tobruk, 210, 218, 225-9, 235, 236,
advance to Giovanni Berta, 255-7, 260
advance to Benghazi, 264-5, 266-7, 272, 273.
at Giarabub, 296-303,
casualties, 302
in England, 307.
2/10th, 51
in England, 307.
2/11th, 51
allotted to 19th Bde, 83n
at Bardia, 196-7,
casualties, 203n
at Tobruk, 210, 213, 225, 228, 230, 233, 236,
casualties at, 238n
at Derna, 244-6, 247-8, 252, 253, 254, 255
advance to Giovanni Berta, 255n
Tripolitania, advance to frontier, 274.
2/12th, 51
allotted to 19th Bde, 83n
at Giarabub, 298.
2/13th, 83n.
2/14th, 83n.
2/15th, 83n.
2/16th, 83n.
2/17th, 83n.
2/27th, 83n.
2/31st, formation, 307.
2/32nd, formation, 307n.
2/33rd, formation, 307n.
70th, see 2/31st.
71st, see 2/32nd.
72nd, see 2/33rd.
in England, 306.
– Medical :
Field Ambulances: 2/1st, 234n
2/3rd, 306.
General Hospitals: 2/1st, 51n, 68
2/2nd, 51n
2/3rd, 306n
– Postal Service, in Palestine, 75
– Provost Companies, 6th, relations with British police, 125
at Dania, 254
– Railway Construction and Maintenance Group, formation, 83
in UK, 310
Australian Navy, 37
reductions in strength, 2, 4, 14
strength and expenditure on, 14n, 26
Australian Red Cross, 76n
antipathy towards soldiers, 11-12
attitude to enlistment, 54-6
national sentiments, 56-7
attitude towards Asiatics, 71
Azzaziya (Sketches pp. 134, 139), 132, 135, 136
–B–
Babini, General, 209, 241, 262
Badham-Jackson, CO, 74n
Bagnold, Brig R. A., 292n
Balm), Marshal, 97
Balfe, Lt-Col F. N., 61n
German ambitions in, 113-14
Bamford, Capt H. O., 219
“BARBAROSSA”, 142
Barge (Map p. 269), 202, 253, 264, 265, 266, 267, 273, 283, 284
Bardia (Map p. 170, Sketch p. 99), 98, 99, 110, 132, 139, 140, 207, 209, 211, 212, 215, 217, 218, 221, 223, 224, 227n, 231, 233, 234n, 235n, 238, 241, 244, 250, 265, 274, 277, 281, 287, 290, 304
Italian garrison, 143, 145, 148, 155
defences of, 147-8, 149, 150, 205-6
the plan, 154-61
divisional orders for capture, 312-17
the battle, 163-99
Italian prisoners, 199
equipment captured, 199, 201, 203n
looting, 199-201
6 Div casualties, 203
Australian achievements at, 203-6
“Bardia Bill”, 157-8 see also Artillery, Italian
Barker, Brig L. E. S., 191, 196, 244, 248
Barker, Lt-Gen M. G. H., 70, 71, 76
Bazley, A. W., 46n
Bean, C. E. W., 52, 72n, 83-4, 129n, 130n, 284n, 304n
Beavis, Maj-Gen L. E., 19-20, 85, 102n
Beckingsale, Capt G., 62n, 214
Beda Fomm (Map p. 269), 276, 277, 278, 281, 286
advance to, 267-8
battle of, 268-72,
British tank losses, 271,
Beda Littoria (Sketch p. 243), 265, 283
Begent, Cpl J. A., 233
Bell, WOP., 187
Benghazi (Map p. 269, Sketches pp. 99, 279), 98, 146, 147, 200, 207, 208, 209, 216, 239, 241, 242, 249, 253, 259, 268, 271, 279, 280, 281, 284, 285, 293, 294, 303
surrender of, 273-5
Benina (Map p. 269), 266, 267, 272, 273, 282n
Bennett, Lt-Col A. P., 180, 191, 196
Benson, Lt J. J., 233
Berbera (Map p. 106; Sketch p. 283), 108, 283
Berberis, General Umberto, 227
Beresford-Peirse, Lt-Gen Sir Noel, 133
Bergonzoli, General, 111, 131, 199, 201, 202, 203, 206, 211n, 253, 262
Bernard, Lt S. E., 183
Berry, Lt-Col B. N., 297, 298, 299, 301, 302
Berryman, Lt-Gen Sir Frank, 143, 145, 155, 156, 159, 160, 173n, 189, 190, 214, 223, 239
Best, Cpl I. K., 213
Bierwirth, Lt-Gen R., 72n
Bir Beder (Sketch p. 141), 141
Birdwood, Field Marshal Lord, 44, 47, 84, 307
Bir el Aleima (Sketch p. 243), 242
Bir el Azazi (Map p. 218), 214
Bir el Baheira (Sketch p. 141), 140
Bir el Gubi (Sketch p. 209), 210
Bir el Khireigat, 140
Bir el Mentechsa (Map p. 218), 230
Bir es salihin (Map p. 250; Sketch p. 258), 257
Bir Riad, 295
Bir Hacheim (Sketch p. 209), 210
Bir Shalludi (Sketch p. 134), 137
Bir Sleiman (Sketch p. 153), 149
Bishop, Maj-Gen J. A., 180, 191
Blackburn, M. McC., 16, 17n, 37, 65
Blakeley, Hon A., 3
Blamey, Field Marshal Sir Thomas, 8n, 50n, 86, 105, 120, 121, 123, 282, 284, 294, 308
directs recruiting campaign, 26
selected as GOC 6 Div, 43-5
estimate of, 46-7
on recruitment of militia, 61-2
becomes GOC I Corps, 84
arrives Palestine, 99
equipment problems, 100
his Charter, 100-1
establishes administrative headquarters, 101-3
seniority, 104n
opposes detachments from AIF, 103-4, 109
seeks second army co-operation squadron, 123-4
Blundell, Pte N., 170
Boase, Lt-Gen A. J., 102
Body, Sgt E. M., 282n
Bomba, Gulf of, 241
Bosom, Thermos, at Bardia, 151
Booby Traps, Italian (Sketch p. 213), 213-14, 219, 223
Bougainville, 22n
Bremner, Cpl A. K., 245
Brenner Pass, 81
Brest, 129n
Bridgeford, Lt-Gen Sir William, 50n, 93n, 307
Brisbane, 24
Britain, Battle of, 305, 308, 309
Britain, Great, 8, 11, 16, 23, 38, 39, 42, 77, 85, 94, 116
defence expenditure, 2, 3, 5, 10, 23n
decline in Naval strength, 4
appeals to Dominions in Turkish crisis, 6-7
introduces conscription, 26n
Australian dependence on, 27, 88-9
declares war on Germany, 33
forms of Australian aid to, 35-6, 37, 39, 83, 89, 310-11
agreement with France for 32-division expeditionary force, 36
Hitler’s peace offer, 40
Australian links with, 56-7
suggests formation AIF Corps, 64
Middle East strategy and plans, 70-71, 79-81, 91-92, 112
recommends diversion third Australian convoy to UK, 86
creation of Defence Committee, 92-3
German invasion of postponed, 114
AIF in, 305-11
British, connotation of word, 72n
British Air Force, 5, 8, 37, 91, 120
strength of, 38
at Sidi Barrani, 133
at Tobruk, 218
available for advance to Tripoli, 280, 281
reduction of strength in Cyrenaica, 282, 294
raids on Tripoli, 285
strength employed in France, 305n
Fighter Command, 305,
losses inflicted on Luftwaffe, 309
202 Group, 133
No. 80 (F), 121
No. 84 (B), 121
No. 211 (B), 121
No. 6 (Co-op), 218
No. 200 (Co-op), 218
British Army, 10, 11n, 24, 27, 41, 51, 104n
expenditure on, 5
efficiency of, 30
regimental system, 53n
outnumbered on Western Front, 64
creation of Middle East Command, 70-71
equipment shortages, 77, 88, 308
strength in France, 77
relations with AIF, 73-4, 78-9, 105, 199-200, 284n
status in Egypt, 79
strength in Middle East, 80, 81, 95
artillery and engineer shortages, 80, 95
tactical doctrines and equipment, 127-30
dispersal of tested staffs, 282
– British Expeditionary Force, 308
strength in France, 64, 77, 305
– Commands: British Troops in Egypt, 294
– Armies, First, dispersal of staff, 282n
– Corps:
Western Desert Force, 108, 112, 289, 303
formation of, 98
at Sidi Barrani, 131
V, 308.
IX, dispersal of staff, 282n.
XI, 310.
placed under Wavell’s command, 242
casualties in Cyrenaica, 272
dispersal of staff, 282
– Divisions, Armoured: organisation of, 80n
expansion and tactical employment, 130.
2nd, 130, 131, 207, 249, 276, 283, 284n.
6th, 130. 7th, 80, 81, 98, 103, 130, 207, 288
composition of, 108n
casualties in Western Desert, 110
at Sidi Barrani, 112-13, 133, 135, 136
advance to Bardia, 140-1, 143, 144, 145
at Tobruk, 209, 210, 211n, 212, 215, 216, 237-8, 242n
advance to Derna and Mechili, 242
advance to Beda Fomm, 263, 266, 267-8
strength after Beda Fomm, 276-7
withdrawn from Cyrenaica, 282, 284.
8th, 130.
9th, 130.
11th, 130.
1st Cavalry, 81
– Divisions, Infantry:
3rd, 305
51st, 305
52nd, 305.
11th and 12th (African), 122
– Brigades, Armoured: IBC, 283.
4th, 108n
at Sidi Barrani, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139
advance to Bardia, 140-41, 145
advance to Tobruk, 209
at Tobruk, 214
advance to Beda Fomm, 266, 268
at Beda Fomm, 271.
7th, 108n
at Sidi Barrani, 135-6, 137, 138
advance to Tobruk, 209
at Tobruk, 214
7 Armd Div Support Group, 108n
at Sidi Barrani, 133, 136, 137, 138, 139, 140-1
at Tobruk, 209, 214, 215, 237-8
at Mechili, 247
planned role for advance to Tripoli, 276
– Brigades, Infantry:
14th, 120.
at Sidi Barrani, 131, 133, 135, 136, 137,
casualties, 138
at Bardia, 140, 145, 148, 152.
22 Bde, 98.
at Sidi Barrani, 133, 136, 137
– Regiments, Armoured:
3 Hussars, 108n, 137-8, 216, 270, 271, 276, 284n.
7 Hussars, 98-9, 108n, 136, 140, 216, 268, 270, 271.
8 Hussars, 108n, 137, 138, 139, 216.
11 Hussars, 99, 108n, 136, 138, 140-1, 145, 210, 214, 242, 247, 253, 259, 264, 265, 266, 268, 271.
King’s Dragoon Guards, 284, 285.
1 Royal Tank, 108n, 216, 243, 270.
2 Royal Tank, 108n, 136, 140, 216, 268, 270, 271.
6 Royal Tank, 108n, 136, 137, 216, 276, 284n.
7 Royal Tank, 112, 131, 133, 135, 155, 160, 166, 174, 178, 189, 192, 196-7, 215, 216
– Regiments, Artillery:
37 Lt AA Regt, 242n.
Royal Horse Artillery,
1 Regt, 284n
104 Regt, 155, 158n, 190, 192, 218, 230
“C” Bty, 268
“F” Bty, 155, 158n, 198, 218, 229, 270, 271
7 Medium Regt, 155, 158n, 192, 218.
– Regiments, Infantry:
2/Black Watch, 72, 73, 74, 108, 120.
1/Cheshire, 218, 224, 235, 257.
3/Coldstream Guards, 110, 136, 137.
1/Hampshire, 72.
1/KRRC, 108n, 148, 238, 268, 271, 288.
1/Royal Fusiliers, 135.
1/Royal Northumberland Fusiliers, at Bardia, 146, 168, 173, 175-6, 184, 187, 192
at Tobruk, 210, 216, 224, 227, 229
at Derna, 242n, 244, 246, 248, 250.
2/Queens, 152.
2/Rifle Brigade, 108n, 238, 266, 267-8, 271.
2/York and Lancaster, 120
– Medical: 26 General Hospital, 121
– Survey: 6 Survey Regt, 158n, 242n
British Navy, effect of Washington Treaty, 4
expenditure on, 5
role in Imperial Defence, 7-9, 18
strength in Mediterranean, 70, 91
action to eliminate French Fleet, 94
air attack on Italian Fleet at Taranto, 121
role at Sidi Barrani, 133
bombards Bardia, 161
in possible advance to Tripoli, 280, 281
defence of Great Britain, 305
British Somaliland, British strength in, 80, 95
Italian invasion of, 108
plans for recapture of, 283
Broadhead, S-Sgt A., 232
Brock, Lt-Col G. H., 177, 178, 179
Brockley, Pte H. F., 186
Broinowski, Pte S. M., 225n
Brown, Lt A. H., 282n
Brown, Lt-Col F. H., 288, 289, 290, 292, 298
Bruce, Rt Hon Viscount, I, 7, 77
Bruce, Sig W. A., 224n
Buckley, Lt-Col A. A., 220
Budder, Lt P. E., 75n
Bulgaria, 208
Bullecourt, 158n
Buqbuq (Sketches pp. 134, 139), 112, 132, 133, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 140, 144, 240
Burg El Arab (Sketch p. 124), 125, 126
Burgess, Sgt M. J., 227
Burke, Lt J. K., 282n
Burma, 36
Burnett, Air Chief Marshal Sir Charles, 86
Burrows, Maj D. S. I., 150
Burrows, Brig F. A., 83n
Burston, Maj-Gen Sir Samuel, 50n, 85, 102n
Burt, Lt-Col J. F. P., 298
Burton, Reverend J. W., 16
–C–
Cairo, 125
Caldwell, Lt-Col W. B., 166, 167, 192, 239n
Calman, Lt L. D., 172
Cameron, Senator Hon D., 17n
Cameron, Cpl H. McD., 176
Campbell, Maj-Gen I. R., 48, 156n, 163, 189, 195, 219, 220
Campbell, Maj-Gen J. C., VC, 266, 296
Campbell, Capt R. E., 226, 227, 228
Canada, 10
Canadian Army
– Forestry Companies: in UK, 310, 311n
Canberra, aircraft accident at, 89-90
Canberra, Australian cruiser, 69
Cann, Maj S. B., 150, 213n, 220
Cannon, Lt-Col W. G., 83n
Cantelo, Lt-Col W. S., 62n, 168
Capetown, 86
Capuzzo, Fort (Sketches pp. 99, 141, 209), 98, 99, 132, 140, 141, 148, 151, 157, 158, 168, 173n, 209
Carr, Lt-Col H. H., 61n
Carriers, Aust production of, 89
at Bardia, number and condition of, 146
Carter, Capt E. J. B., 224n
Casey, Rt Hon Lord, 15n, 23, 41, 44, 64, 90
Casualties
at Derna, 246
in Cyrenaica, 272
at Giarabub, 302
British, in Western Desert, 110
at Sidi Barrani, 138
in Cyrenaica, 272
Indian, at Sidi Barrani, 138, 203
Caunter, Brig J. A. L., 135n, 137, 268, 270
Cavallero, General U., 118
Cawthorn, Maj-Gen Sir Walter, 81
Challen, Lt-Col H. B., 229
Chamberlain, Rt Hon A. N., 25, 33, 80, 82, 92, 119
Chapman, Maj V. P., 248
Chario, General, 138
Chater, Maj-Gen A. R., 108
Chatfield, Admiral Sir Ernie, 21n
Chaulan (Map p. 250; Sketch p. 258), 253, 259
Chauvel, General Sir Harry, annual reports of, 5-6, 9, 10, 11, 13-14, 26
Cheong, Cap/ C. H., 75n
Cherbourg, 129n
Chester, Maj R. R., 62n
Cheteita, Wadi, (Map p. 218), 233, 236
Chilton, Brig F. O., 167, 192, 205, 223, 229, 239n
Churchill, Rt Hon W. S., 7, 26, 94, 109, 112, 121, 305
warns of impending war, 20-21
becomes Prime Minister, 82
estimate of, 92-3
minutes and directives of, 93, 95n, 111
supports Western Desert offensive, 112
on aid to Greece, 119-20, 207-8, 275-6, 281
directs continuation of advance to Benghazi, 209
halts advance in Cyrenaica, 275
his address to AIF in UK, 308-9
Ciano, Count, 81, 94n, 110, 118n, 202-3
Clacton, 310
Clarke, Brig D., 130n
Clarke, Capt F. D., 223
Cleland, Brig D. M., 72n
Clifford, A., 265n
Clift, Sig K. R., 224n
Clowes, Maj-Gen C. A., 85, 102n
Coffey, Brig J. K., 93n
Cohen, Brig Hon H. E., 76n
Colchester, 310
Cole, Lt-Col C. R., 311
Collishaw, Air Vice-Marshal R., 133
Colvin, Admiral Sir Ragnar, 42n, 86
Combe, Maj-Gen J. F. B., 259, 266, 267, 268, 270, 271
Committee of Imperial Defence, 79
lack of Dominion representation on, 17-18
Commonwealth Military journal, 11
Commonwealth War Book, 34
Communiques, 72n
Communism, 81
Compass Operation, See Sidi Barrani
Conferences, Washington Disarmament, 4
London Naval, 15
Conkey, Maj H. S., 230, 231, 274
Conscription
in United Kingdom, 26n
Considine, M. P., 6
Constantinople, 6
Coott, Colonel T. P., 52
Commas, Lt-Col C. J. A., 227, 228, 229
Copland, Maj J. S., 231
Corfu, 120
Corrie, Sgt N. H., 179
Cory, Mai G. C., 289
Costiana, Colonel, 287, 293, 294, 302
Cowie, WO2, J. M., 187
Cox, Brig A. R. B., 83n
Crawford, Capt A. A., 168
Crawford, Capt J. M., 188-9
Crawford, Brig J. W., 83n
Creagh, Maj-Gen Sir Michael, 98, 112, 135n, 215, 247, 249, 263, 266, 268, 271, 272, 273
Cremor, Brig W. E., 154, 189, 191
Cunningham, Admiral of the Fleet Viscount, 71, 94
Cunningham, General Sir Alan, 122, 282, 283
Curtin, Rt Hon J., 17n, 19, 23, 29n, 35, 65, 67
Curtis, Lt K. F., 60n
Curtis, Sgt P. W., 248n
Cyrenaica, 94, 207, 242, 263, 272, 275, 276, 278, 287
first encounters in, 99
Italian strength, dispositions in, 138-9, 147-8, 201, 239-40, 241, 246-7
terrain, climate, communications, 146-7, 241
Italian settlement in, 253-4, 261
garrisoning of, 281-2, 283-4, 285
German threat to, 285-6
summary of achievements in, 303-4
Cyrene (Sketches pp. 99, 243), 110, 241, 261, 262, 263
–D–
D’Albiac, Air Marshal Sir John, 121
“Daly House” (Giarabub – Sketch p. 291), 296, 297, 298, 299
Damm, Pte F. C., 186
Damm, Sgt H. B., 186
Darwin, 34
Davey, Maj W. A., 62n, 165, 213n, 220, 221
Davis, Lt C. A., 178
Daws, Lt V., 248
Dawson, Maj B. F., 164-5, 213n
Defence Policy, Australian, interwoven with Imperial, 2
Government policy, 2-3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 20, 21, 23, 26, 27, 29
Labour views, 2, 3, 7, 9, 13-15, 16-17, 18, 23, 27n, 67
effect of disarmament, 4-5
expenditure on, 3-4, 14n, 16, 20, 23, 25, 26, 41-2
Australian complacency examined, 5-6
reliance on British Navy, 10
lack of medium for discussion of problems, 11
effect of trade depression, 12-15
renewed interest in, 15
dependence on advice from Great Britain, 17-18, 27
mobilisation plans, 24-5
failure to produce efficient army, 31-2
lack of adequate munitions industry, 88-9
see also Imperial Conferences, Imperial Defence, Singapore Base
Defences, Coast,
manned on outbreak of war, 34, 35
De Guingand, Maj-Gen Sir Francis, 36n, 38n, 280
Deir Suneid (Sketch p. 73), 102
Delia, Wadi ED (Map p. 218), 236
Della Bona, General, 262
Denmark, German invasion of, 81
Department of Defence, 34
Department of the Treasury, 41-2
Depression, Trade,
effect on Australian defence, 12-15
effect on AIF enlistments, 58
Deana (Map p. 250; Sketches pp. 99, 243, 247, 258), 110, 146, 198, 200, 202, 216, 237, 238, 240, 267, 272, 278, 283
advance to, 241-4
engagement at, 244-6, 247-9, 250, 252-4
advance from 255-62
Deana, Want
described, 241
crossing of, 246, 247, 248, 250, 252, 253, 258-9, 265
De Teliga, Pte G. W., 232n
Deverell, Field Marshal Sir Cyril, 21n
Dexter, Lt-Col W. R., 153
Dickinson, Maj-Gen D. P., 96
Diffey, Maj S. C., 256-7
Dill, Field Marshal Sir John, 78
mission to ME, 275
views on advance to Tripoli, 280
Disarmament, See Defence policy
Discipline, of AIF
at Colombo, 71
in Palestine, 74-5, 79, 105, 125
in Cyrenaica, 172n, 211-12, 254-5, 284n
Dominion Troops
application of word “British” to, 72n
British attitude to, 78-9, 284n
officer-other rank relations, compared to British, 105
Donegan, Lt R., 221
Dougherty, Maj-Gen I. N., 60, 205, 212, 225, 230, 231, 236, 237, 246, 250, 274
Doyle, Cpl V. L., 213
Drake-Brockman, Maj-Gen Hon. E. A., 43
Duncan, Capt W. N., 229
Dunera, British transport, 69
Duntroon, See Royal Military College
Durant, Brig H. F. H., 102n
Durrant, Maj-Gen J. M. A., 28n
Dun, effect on machine-guns, 152
Dwyer-Gray, Hon E., 37
–E–
East Africa, 80, 86, 91, 122, 142
British offensive in, 282-3
Eather, Maj-Gen K. W., 45n, 68n, 164, 165, 194, 195, 198, 205, 236
Eckersley Lt P. J., 213
Eden, Rt Hon Sir Anthony, 26, 71-2, 93, 95n, 112, 208
mission to Middle East, 275
Eden, Colonel R. A., 265
Edmonds, Sir James, 126n
Egan, Lt-Col E. W., 244, 246, 248
Egypt, 71, 86, 103, 104, 113, 119, 121, 123, 275, 303n
British occupation of, 70, 79-80
Italian threat to, 91, 96, 97-8
Government and King, 94
British strength in, 95n, 96, 143
communications, defences, 97-8
operations on frontier, 98-9
air raids on, 109n
Italian advance into, 110
AIF in, 124-6
Egypt Corps, proposal to form, 103-4
Egyptian Army, estimate of, 94
response to Italian air raids, 109n
Egyptian, The, apprehensive of AIF, 79
Ellington, Air Chief Marshal Sir Edward, 21n
Ettiorr, Brig C. M. L., 84
Eluet el Asel (Map p. 250; Sketch p. 258), 259, 260n
Embrey, Lt-Col F. J., 149-50
Empire Air Training Scheme, 67
effect on AIF
recruitment, 59
Empress of Canada, British transport, 69, 305
Empress of Japan, British transport, 69
England, Brig V. T., 164n, 171, 172, 195, 220n, 221, 232
Epirus, 117n
Equipment,
of Aust Army, 9, 10, 20, 24, 39, 40-1, 42
dependence on Great Britain for, 27, 36
handicapped by lack of adequate munitions industry, 88-9
of 6th Division, 41-2, 50-1, 52-3, 62, 64, 65, 73, 100, 145-6, 162
improvised weapons, 125-6
of 7th Division, 83n
of AIF in England, 308
British shortages of, 77
losses in France, 88
comparison with German, 129-30
with Italian, 200n
of Greek Army and Air Force, 116
Italian, captured at Bardia, 199-200
Eritrea, 283
Ethiopia, 23
Evensen, Capt S. B., 178
Everett, Vice-Admiral A. F., 8n
–F–
Faidia, El, 247, 249, 260, 263
Fairbairn, Hon J. V., death of, 89-90
Farouk, King, 94n
Fennessy, L-Cpl T. M., 178n
Ferguson, Cpl E. C., 251-2
Ferguson, Lt-Col I. B., 163
Fergusson, Brig M. A., 49, 290, 291, 293, 294
estimate of, 289
Field, Brig J., 83n
Fifth Column, German employment of, 130
Fleay, Lt-Col N. L., 252
Fleming, Lt-Col P. V. O., 61n
Florina (Sketch p. 117), 116, 117
Foster, Cpl C. J. A., 222
France, 4, 37, 38, 39, 40, 70, 83, 89, 90, 113, 116, 125, 129, 142, 308, 310
attitude to Turkish crisis, 7
British agreement with, 36
British strength in, 77, 129n, 305
signs military convention with Turkey and Britain, 79
German invasion of, 82
British aid to, 91
effect of surrender on Mediterranean strategy, 91-92
relations with Germany, 114
Churchill’s conditional offer to, 207
Franco, General, relations with Hitler, 114, 141-2
Fraser, Lt-Col K. A., 310
outnumbered by German on Western Front, 64
role in Mediterranean, 70
strength in North Africa compared with Italian, 80
effect of loss of, in Mediterranean, 91
British action to eliminate, 94
French Somaliland, 108
Frew Group, 158n – see also Artillery
Freyberg, Lt-Gen Lord, VC,
his reaction to proposal to form Egypt Corps, 103-4
seniority, 104n
Frinton, 310
Frowen, Brig J. H., 158n, 189, 191
Fuller, Tpr J. S. C., 292n
Fulton, Capt I. C., 171, 224, 232
–G–
Gabr el Carmusa (Map p. 250; Sketch p. 247), 246
Gabr es Sann (Map p. 250; Sketch p. 247), 246
Gabr Lachem (Sketch p. 141), 140
Gallina, General, 138
Gallipoli, 18
Galloway, Lt-Gen Sir Alexander, 109
Gambier-Parry, Maj-Gen M. D., 120
Gambut (Sketch p. 209), 140, 145, 211, 215, 218
Gardiner, Senator Hon A., 7
Garn el Grein (Sketch p. 287), 288-9, 290, 291
Garrett, Lt-Gen Sir Ragnar, 48
Gately, Capt J. C., 226, 227, 228
Gaza (Sketch p. 73), 71, 72, 76, 79, 102
Gazala,el (Sketch p. 243), 198, 241, 282
Gee, Colonel G. L., 75-6
Gehrmann , Lt-Col A. S., 62n
Gellibrand, Maj-Gen Sir John, 46
Geneva Convention, 165n
George VI, King, visits AIF in UK, 307, 310n
Gerard, Lt E. H., 170
Gerfan, Wadi (Map p. 170; Sketch p. 194), 168, 169, 170, 171, 191, 192, 193
reinforcement of Tripolitania with, 279-80
in Battle of Britain, 308, losses, 309
X Air Corps: 203
sent to Italy’s aid in Mediterranean, 277
in Sicily, 281
operations from, 278, 282, 283
efficiency of, 30
strength on Western Front, 64
tank development in, 127
comparison with British, 129-30
reinforces Italian Army in Tripolitania, 277-80, 283, 285-6
Africa Corps: creation of, 280
7 Armoured Div: 278
15 Armoured Div: decision to send to Tripolitania, 280
5 Light Motorised Div: reinforces Italian Army in Tripolitania, 203, 277, 278, 279, 280
German Navy, blockade of, 70
Germany, 3, 34, 35, 38, 70, 76, 89, 91, 112, 125
withdraws from League of Nations, 15
reintroduces conscription, 1935, 20-21
defence expenditure 1937, 23n
signs pact with Russia, 30, 59, 79
invades Poland, 33
Egypt breaks off diplomatic relations with, 80
encourages illegal immigration of Jews into Palestine, 80n
invades Holland and Belgium, 81
relations with Italy, 81-2, 113-14, 118-19, 203
Mediterranean plans of, 114, 141-2
relations with France, 114
relations with Spain, 114, 141-2, 207
Gerrari, Bir el, (Sketch p. 243), 266
Ghegab, el (Sketch p. 258), 260, 261
Ghemines (Map p. 269), 271, 272, 273, 274, 275
Ghereidia, Wadi (Map p. 170), 169, 170, 192
Gialo, 292
Giarabub (Map p. 300; Sketches, pp. 99, 287, 291), 98, 141, 145
operations from Siwa, 288-93
recon-naissance, 295-6
the Italian Garrison, 290, 293-4
the plan, 295
the prisoners, 303
loss of, 303n
Gibbins, Capt G. W., 213
Gibraltar,
naval reinforcement of, 94
German plan for capture of, 141
Giffard, General Sir George, 105
Giovanni Berta (Map p. 250; Sketches pp. 243, 258), 240, 241, 264
advance from, 260-62
Glasgow, 310
Glassop, Sgt L., 75n
Glennie, R., 68n
Goble, Cpl E. C., 153
Goble, Air Vice-Marshal S. J., 42n
Godbold, Capt G. H., 166, 167, 192
Godfrey, Brig A. H. L., 152, 153, 159, 160, 180, 184, 191, 197, 233, 258n
accepts surrender of Post 11 at Bardia, 198
criticises employment of 17 Bde at Tobruk, 235n
Gorman, Brig E., 152n
Gort, Field Marshal Lord, VC, 77, 104n
Goschen, Maj G. W., 296
Gorr, Lt-Gen W. H. E., 110, 268
Gourock, 305
Goward, Colonel R. S., 74, 75, 76
Gowing, M. M., 36n
Graffin, Pte F., 245
Grant, Pte E. W., 172n
Graziani, Marshal, 110, 138, 193, 201, 239-40
Italian commander in North Africa, 97
considers with-drawing to Tripoli, 202
relieved of command, 279
Grazzi, Emanuele, informs Metaxas of Italian intention to invade Greece, 115
Great Britain, See Britain
Greece, 119, 121, 131, 208, 250, 281, 294, 295
British and French obligation to support against aggression, 79
delivery of British aircraft to, 96n
Italian threat to, 113-15
Italian invasion of, 116-18
British aid to, 119-22, 207-8, 277n, 283, 285
halts advance in Cyrenaica, 275-6
German decision to invade, 119, 142
Greek Air Force, estimate of, 116
Greek Army,
estimate of, 116
Divisions:
5th (Cretan), 120
8th Greek, 117
Green, Cdr A. H., 238
Green, Capt D. I. A., 174, 177, 178, 182
Green Highlands, See Achdar, Jebel
Green, R. F. H., 13
Grenade, Italian, ineffectiveness of, 183n, 200n
Greta, 59
Grieve, Capt B. R., 196
Ganwrits, Lt-Col W. B., 174, 175, 176, 177, 180, 183, 191, 196
Grover, Lt H., 75n
Guam, 22
Guidi, General, 97
Guidia, General, 203
Gullett, Hon Sir Henry, 35, 61
death of, 89-90
Gullerr, Maj H. B. S., 185, 186
–H–
Haifa (Map p. 106), 70, 72n, 80
anti-aircraft defence of, 109n
Haig, Field Marshal Earl, 284n
Haile Selassie, Emperor, 96, 282n
Halder, Colonel-General F., 113n, 118
Halfaya Pass (Sketches pp. 139, 141), 98, 110, 132, 140, 145, 201
Halliday, Capt G. H., 181, 183
Hall-Thompson, Rear-Admiral P. H., 8n
Hamel, 126n
Hamra, El (Brown’s Hill) (Sketch p. 291), 295
Hancock, W. K., 36n
Hankey, Lord, 17
Harding, Field Marshal Sir John, 173n, 190, 266
Harrison, Colonel E. F., 15n
Harwich, 310
Haseien, Wadi, 248
Hassett, Lt-Col F. G., 219
Hawaiian Islands, 4
Hawker, Maj G. C., 50n, 125, 254
Hawkins, T. J., 33
Hay, Lt-Col J. C., 62n
Heath, Lt-Gen Sir Lewis, 122
Hebs el Harram (Map p. 170), 195
Helgh el Anz, Wadi (Map p. 170; Sketch p. 194), 192
Helgh el Homer, Wadi (Map p. 170; Sketch p. 194), 193
Helle, Greek Cruiser, 113
Hendry, Lt-Col J. G., 167, 192
Henley, Sir Thomas, 16
Hennessy, Lt-Col E. C., 236, 237, 251
Hergenhan, Pte H. H., 171
Herring, Lt-Gen Hon Sir Edmund, 48, 156, 158, 190, 218, 220n
Hescia, Wadi (Map p. 250; Sketch p. 258), 258
Heywood, Maj-Gen T. G. G., 121n, 122
Hill 407 (Map p. 250; Sketch p. 258), 255
Hindenberg Outpost Line, 158n
Hiscock, Lt.-Col W. R. G., 72n
Hitler, Adolf, 26, 81, 280, 281
seizes power in Germany, 15
reintroduces conscription, 20
peace offer to Britain and France, 40
relations with Mussolini, 81-2, 113, 118-19, 278
meets Pétain at Montoire, 114
postpones invasion of Great Britain, 114, 309
seeks Spanish co-operation, 114, 119, 141
directs plan to occupy Greece, 119
advises Italy to go on defensive in North Africa, 141-2
decides to attack Russia, 142
Hoban, WO2 F. F., 179
Hobart, Australian cruiser, 108n
Hoddinott, Capt F. J., 222
Hodge, Maj J. H., 168, 170, 194, 223
Hoffman, Sgt R. L., 69
appointed editor AIF News, 75
German invasion of, 82
Holloway, Rt Hon E. J., 13, 17n
Honeywell, WO2 H. J., 149
Honner, Lt-Col R., 196-7, 244-6, 248
Hore-Belisha, Rt Hon L., 36n
Horley, Lt-Col R. J., 244, 248
Horner, Pte S. B., 245n
Horses, 10
Hotham, Commodore A. G., 8n
Howard, Lt M. A., 179
Howden, Capt H. L., 108n
Howell, Lt W. R., 282n
Hughes, Rt Hon W. M., 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 20, 26
Hungary, 1 13
Hurley, Pte S. M., 194
Hutchin, Maj A. W., 15n
Hutchison, Lt-Col I., 170, 171, 193, 224n
–I–
Ikingi Maryut (Sketch p. 124), 125, 162, 303
Illustrious, British aircraft carrier, 108, 121
Imperial Conferences
of 1926, 21
of 1930, 15
Imperial Defence,
machinery for, 7n
Dominion expenditure on, 10
lack of Dominion representation, 6-7, 17-18, 93
Imperial Defence College, 17, 50
Indian Army, 70
lack of artillery, 95
– Divisions:
planned role at Sidi Barrani, 112
reinforcement of, 131
at Sidi Barrani, 133-5, 136, 137, 139
transfer to East Africa, 132, 140, 282
relieved in Western Desert by 6 Div, 143
– Cavalry: Central India Horse, 137
– Infantry Brigades:
11th, at Sidi Barrani, 133-5, 136, 137.
– Infantry Battalions :
1/15th Punjab, 108
3/15th Punjab, 108
1/6th Rajputana Rifles, 133, 134
4/6th Rajputana Rifles, 135
4/7th Rajput Regt, 133
Indian Ocean, 39
Russia encouraged to seek outlet to, 114
Infantry, tactical doctrines, 128-9
Intelligence,
British
in Balkans, 76
lack of appeal to Aust regulars, 84
in Cyrenaican campaign, 80, 138-9, 140, 143, 145, 155, 173, 201
Iponticelli (Map p. 170; Sketch p. 176), 167, 177
Irvine, Colonel W. M. W., 50n
Irving, Brig R. G. H., 50n, 84, 100, 102n
Ismailia, arrival of first convoy at, 71
Italian Air Force,
strength in ME compared with British, 96
raids on Palestine and Egypt, 109n
in Cyrenaica, 199, 205-6, 234, 281, 283
Italian Army, 91, 99, 116, 303
condition of, 81
comparison with British establishments, 97n
in East Africa, 96, 108, 122, strength in, 80, 95
in North Africa, estimated strength, 80, 95, 97
German aid declined, 113
strength and dispositions at Sidi Barrani, 132, 138-9
at Bardia, 145, 173, 201, losses at, 199, 201
at Tobruk, strength and dispositions, 209, 216, 239-40, losses, 238
leadership of, 203
at Giarabub, 290, 293, losses, 302-3
losses in Cyrenaican Campaign, 272
strength in Tripolitania, 247, 272, 281
German reinforcement, 277-80
– Armies:
Fifth,
in Cyrenaica, 240
Ninth, in Albania, 117n
Tenth,
in Cyrenaica, 97, 99, 110, 202, 211n, 241, 266, 268, 279
Eleventh, in Albania, 117n
– Corps:
XX, 209
at Giovanni Berta, 241, 253, 262
withdrawal from Cyrenaica, 272
XXI, at Sidi Barrani, 111, 139
XXII,
at Bardia, 209
XXIII,
at Bardia, 201
– Armour:
132nd (Ariete), in Tripolitania, 272, 287, 279, 280
– Divisions:
1st Blackshirt, 111, 132, 135, 138, 139, 140
destruction of, 272
2nd Blackshirt, at Sidi Barrani, 111, 132, 138, 139
destruction of, 272
4th Blackshirt, 97
at Sidi Barrani, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139
17th (Pavia), 201, 209, 216, 241, 247, 262, 272, 279
25th (Bologna), 201, 216, 272, 279
27th (Brescia), 201, 216, 241, 247, 262, 272
60th (Sabratha), 138n, 201, 209, 216
at Beda Fomm, 268
destruction of, 272
destruction of, 272
62nd (Marmarica), 97, 110, 111, 132, 138n, 139
at Bardia, 145, 155, 184, 197, 201, 203
destruction of, 272
63rd (Cyrene), 97, 110, 111, 132
at Sidi Barrani, 135, 138, 139
at Bardia, 145, 154, 155, 184, 197, 201, 203
destruction of, 272
64th (Catanzaro), at Sidi Barrani, 138, 139, 140
destruction of, 272
at Sidi Barrani, 136, 137, 138, 140
destruction of, 272
2nd Libyan, 97, 110, 111, 112, 132
destruction of, 272
102nd (Trento) Motorised, 278, 280
Alpini (Mountain), 117
Julia (Mountain), 117
– Groups and Regiments:
10th Bersaglieri Regiment, 262
85th, 262
Italian Navy,
effect of Washington Treaty, 4
offset by French Navy in Mediterranean, 70, 91
British sorties against, 94, 121
inactivity of, 281
Italy, 34, 38, 76, 79, 85, 94, 120
disarmament, 4
attitude to Turkish crisis, 7
attacks Abyssinia, 21
possible aims in Mediterranean, 70
partial blockade of, 81
relations with Germany, 81-2, 113-14, 118-19, 141-2, 277-80
declares war, 82, 86, 96, 124-5
effect on Mediterranean strategy, 91-2
lack of enterprise in, 108-9
pattern of aggression, 113-14
relations with Greece, 115
invasion of, 116-18
repercussions of defeats, 118-19, 202-3
colonisation of North Africa, 253-4
–J–
Jackson, Brig D. R., 156n, 236
Japan, 17
succeeds to command of Western Pacific, 4
peace assurances, 7
begins occupation of Manchuria, 15
conjectural strategy in event of Pacific War, 22, 25
and Australia, 34, 35, 36, 42-3, 82, 87, 100
attitude to European War, 37-8
Jay, Lt E., 172
Jerram, Brig R. M., 156, 157, 189, 215, 216
Jerusalem (Sketch p. 73), 71, 72, 74, 75n, 80, 101
Jess, Lt-Gen Sir Carl, 43, 45n
Jews,
allegiance to Great Britain, 80, 94
immigration to Palestine, 80
Jinnette, Sgt W. A., 182
“Jockforce, 266
Johnson, Lt K. T., 244, 245, 253
Johnson, Cpl T. L., 252n
–K–
Kalabaka, 116 Kantara, El, 72
Kassala (Sketch p. 283), 96, 108, 282
Keane, Senator Hon R. V., 37
Keating, Capt G., 265n
Kelaher. Pte J. A. (“Tip”), 75n
Kemal, Mustapha, 6
Kendrick, Spr A. G., 213
Kennedy, Maj M. C., 165, 166, 190, 194
Kenworthy, Lt-Cdr J. M., 8n
operations in, 96
Kerr, Maj I. E., 184
Khur (Sketch p. 134), 137, 138, 139
Kiddle, Capt R. H., 186-7
King, Pm A. M.. 75n
King, Maj-Gen R., 229, 230, 233, 257, 258, 259, 263
Kismayu (Sketch p. 283), 282, 283
Knights, Maj-Gen R. W., 219
Knox, Lt-Col W. M., 273
Koryzis, A., Greek Prime Minister, 275
Kufra, 292n
Kuriles, 4
–L–
Ladybird, British gunboat, 161
Laing, Lt J. A., 175
Lark Hill, 308
Latham, Cpl B. A. F., 185, 186
Lavarack, Lt-Gen Sir John, 19, 28n, 43, 50n, 120
appointed CGS, 24
passed over as GOC AIF, 44-45
appointed GOC 7 Div, 84
Lazzarini, Hon H. P., 6
League of Nations,
aspirations of, 2
in Turkish crisis, 6
resignation of Japan and Germany from, 15
impotence of, 21
Leave,
in Palestine, 74
in Egypt, 125
Lee, N. E., 58n
Leeworthy, Spr C. A., 168n
Legacy Club, 48
Leighton, A. E., 62n
Le Nevez, WO2 R., 171
Leone, General de, 231
Levant, 70
Lewis, Essington, 89
Liguria, Italian merchantman, 238
Lindsay, Maj J. G., 246
Literature, War, 12
Little Italy (Bardia), 154,159, 160, 177, 179, 183, 184
Little, Maj M. C. D., 154, 184, 185, 187
“Little” Wadi (Bardia – Sketches pp. 154, 185), 154, 184
Liverpool (Eng), 310
Lloyd, Maj-Gen C. E. M., 50n, 85, 102n
Lloyd, Maj-Gen W. L., 135
Lloyd George, Rt Hon Earl, 6
Lone Pine, 164
Long, Capt L. M., 55-6, 171, 235
Longmore (Eng), 310
Longmore, Air Chief Marshal Sir Arthur, 71n, 96, 120, 122, 131, 208
Long Range Desert Group
at Giarabub, 292
formation and work of, 292n
Looting, 172n, 199-200, 238, 254, 261, 267
Lopcombe Corner, 306
Louch, Brig T. S., 244, 246, 247, 248, 252, 253, 254n, 272, 274
Loveridge, Colonel N. B., 49, 50n
Lovett, Lt-Col B. M., 297
Lovett, Lt H. I., 149
Low, David, 11n
cartoon, 92
Lorton, Maj F. E. C., 299, 302
Luftwaffe, see German Air Force
Luigi Di Savoia (Sketch p. 243), 253, 261, 263, 264
Luigi Razza (Map p. 269), 263, 265
Lyons, Rt Hon J. A., 16, 20, 26
–M–
Macarthur-Onslow, Maj-Gen D., 170, 192, 193, 195, 236, 242, 243, 247, 249, 252n, 255, 259, 261, 262, 265, 267, 273
McBain, Sgt R. A., 221
McBride, Rt Hon Sir Philip, 90n
McCallum, WO2 A., 197-8
McCarty, Lt-Col J., 231, 246, 248, 250
MacDonald, Lt A. J., 179
McDonald, Lt-Col H. H., 227, 228, 229
MacDonald, Capt J. E., 222
MacDonald, Rt Hon J. R., 15
McDonald, Maj R. W. F., 222, 224-5, 232, 233
MacDougal. Lt B. H., 171, 232, 233
Macfarlane, Maj C. W., 178, 179, 180, 181-2, 183
Macfarlane, Maj R. H., 175
McGeogh, Capt B. de B., 191
McGowan, Colonel J. M., 62n
McGrath, D. C., 3
McGregor, Maj W. R., 169, 171, 193, 224, 232
McGuinn, Lt-Col L., 222
Machine-Guns, 130n, 185n, 301n
effect of dust on, 152n
McIntosh, WO1 I. J., 168
McKay, Sgt H., 197-8
Mackay, Lt-Gen Sir Iven, 40n, 83, 86, 102, 105, 120, 143, 145, 152, 164n, 196, 210, 214, 215, 218, 223, 234, 239, 242, 247, 249, 257, 259, 260, 261, 263, 264, 271, 272, 273, 274, 285
seniority in Aust Army, 43
becomes GOC 6 Div, 84
at Bardia, 154-61
on encounters with Germans, 286
on written reports and messages, 304
McKeague, Sig R. D., 224n
Mackenzie, Lt M. G., 230
MacMichael, Sir Harold, 80
McNicoll, Capt D. R., 75n
McNicoll, Brig-Gen Sir Walter, 15
Macpherson, Lt K. J., 150, 165, 166
McQuillan, Sgt V. D., 250-2
McRobbie, Lt A. F., 244, 245, 246
Maddalena, Fort (Sketches pp. 99, 287), 99, 290
Maginot Line, 82
Maher Pasha, Ali, 94
Mail, 75
Maitland, P., 115n
Makin, Hon N. J. O., 3, 13, 16, 17n
Maktila, El (Sketch p. 134), 110, 112, 132, 133, 136, 137, 138, 139
Maletti, General, 134
Maloney, Lt V. N., 186
Malta, 70, 91, 94, 109, 281, 285
Manella, General P., 209, 211n, 231-2
Manpower, effect on enlistment, 40, 55-6, 58n, 62n
Marchant, Tpr E. G., 292n
Marco Polo, Italian merchantman, 238
Marlan, Colonel R. F., 83n
Marsa Brega (Sketch p. 279), 263, 266, 284, 286
Marsa ER Ramla (Sketch p. 141), 141
Marseilles, 86
Marshall, Maj H. C. D., 180, 181
Martin, Brig J. E. G., 49, 296, 298, 299, 301, 302, 303
Martin, Sgt W. O., 251
Martuba (Map p. 250; Sketch p. 243), 202, 241, 242, 243, 246, 249, 250, 255
Maryut, Lake (Sketch p. 124), 124
Matchett, Col L. T., 251
Mauretania, British transport, 305
Maxwell-Hyslop, R., 126n
Mechili (Map p. 250; Sketch p. 243), 209, 214, 215, 216, 240, 241, 242-3, 246, 246-7, 249, 255, 262, 263, 266, 272
British strategy in, 70
effect of fall of France in, 86, 91-2
naval encounters in, 94
lack of Italian enterprise in, 108-9
Mediterranean Fleet, See British Navy
Melfa (Sketch, p. 291), 290, 291, 292, 293, 299, 303n
Menzies, Rt Hon R. G., 33, 35, 39, 42, 44, 44-6, 54, 63, 64-5, 65-6, 67, 87, 89
becomes Prime Minister, 29
visits Middle East, 284
Mersa Matruh (Map p. 106; Sketches pp. 99, 287), 97, 112, 131, 132, 133, 147, 161, 240, 288, 295, 303
British defences at, 98
Mersea, 310
Mers-el-Kebir, 94
Merzari, General, 138
Messervy, General Sir Frank, 282
Massimo, 158n
Metaxas, General J., 113, 116, 119
estimate of, 115
requests British aid, 120
death of, 275
Metrovon (Sketch p. 117), 116, 117
Middle East, defence of, 70-71, 79-81, 91-2
creation of ministerial committee for, 93
British and Italian strengths in, 95-6, reinforcement of, 111-12, 122-4
extension of commitments in, 122
Middle East Intelligence Centre, 81
Miles, Lt-Gen C. G. N., 45n
Milford, Maj-Gen E. J., 83
re-formation of, 1
strength and equipment, 2-3, 4-5, 9, 13-14, 40-41
compulsory training abolished, 12-13, reintroduced, 63
recruiting campaign, 26
achievements of system, 30-32, 204-5
effect of manpower restrictions on, 40
lack of links with Second AIF, 51-2
recruiting for AIF, 44-5, 54-5, 61-2, 63, 87
rates of pay compared with AIF, 65-6
Millar, Sgt P., 185
Millard, Lt-Col A. B., 124
Millard, WO2 J., 301n
Miller, Lt-Col J., 223
Mills, Lt-Col T., 195, 230, 251, 252n, 265
Mines, Italian,
cavalry casualties caused by, 251
crossing of, after Derna, 256
Misurata (Sketch p. 279), 279, 285, 286
Mitchell, Colonel J. W., 49, 83n, 228, 229, 256, 265, 267, 273
Mitchell, Air Chief Marshal Sir William, 71
Mittlehauser, General, 91, 108
Mogadiscio (Sketch p. 283), 283
Moloney, Hon P. J., 15
Monash, General Sir John, 13n, 44
his estimate of General Blamey, 46
Montbrehain, 126n
Montgomery, Field Marshal Viscount, 78, 305
Mont St Quentin, 126n
Moorehead, A., 265n
Morale, of AIF,
at Bardia, 163
of 17 Bde in advance to Giovanni Berta, 260
Moriarty, Capt O. B., 150, 164, 166
Morris, Maj-Gen B. M., 68, 71, 76, 102
Morshead, Lt-Gen Sir Leslie, 40n, 44, 237, 293, 306, 308
appointed Comdr 18 Bde, 47-8
selects 18 Bde COs, 49
becomes GOC 9 Div, 294
Mortars, deficiencies at Bardia, 146
Mann, Brig M. J., 83n
Mourad Pasha, 94n
Moyale, 96
Msus (Map p. 269), 263, 266, 267, 275
Muatered, Wadi (Map p. 170; Sketches pp. 153, 185, 188), 152-4, 159, 160, 184, 185, 187, 188
Muller, Lt-Col D. O., 62n
Munitions, 22
nucleus industry established in Aust, 10
expenditure on, 1914-39, 14n
expansion of, 41-2
production figures, 88, 89, 100
appointment of Director-General, 89
Murchison, Lt-Col A. C., 169, 195
Murray, Maj-Gen J. J., 40n, 83n, 286
Murray, Tpr T. A., 251
Murzuk, 292n
Mussoutn, Benito, 26, 110, 118, 119, 261, 280
relations with Hitler, 81-2, 113, 118-9, 278
declares war, 82
and Greece, 113-5, appeals to Germany for help, 118
after Sidi Barrani and Bardia, 201-3
replaces Graziani, 279
–N–
Naismith, Pte A. K., 180n
Naples, 278
Nash, Sgt V. E., 213n
Navy, Army and Air Force Institutes, 76
Neall, Lt O. Z., 228
Neame, Lt-Gen Sir Philip, VC, 285
Nethercote, Lt C. R., 189
New Guinea, 37
New South Wales Trades and Labour Council, 37
New York, 12
New Zealand, 8, 10, 17, 22, 36, 39
response to Turkish crisis, 7
raises expeditionary force, 38
decides to send force overseas, 64
New Zealand Division, 70, 81, 95, 98, 103, 109n, 126, 131, 207
Churchill criticises failure to employ, 111
earmarked for Greece, 283
– Brigades:
6th, 104
– Forestry Companies, 310-11
– Reserve Motor Companies: 4th, 135, 156n, 210
New Zealander, The, 56-7, 71, 125
Nibeiwa (Sketches pp. 134, 139), 110, 112, 132, 133, 135, 136
Nickerson, H., 205n
Nogues, General A. P., 108
Norfolk Island, 28n
Northcott, Lt-Gen Sir John, 50n
Norway, German invasion of, 81
–O–
O’Connor, General Sir Richard, 135, 139, 143, 144, 148, 155, 161, 162, 190, 203, 207, 209, 210, 214, 216, 218, 246, 247, 250, 266, 271, 275, 278, 279
Commands Western Desert Force, 98-9
plans attack at Sidi Barrani, 112-3, 132-3
outlines role of 6 Div at Bardia, 145, 154
his plan at Tobruk, 215-6
protests at conflicting orders, 241-2
his plan for a decisive blow in Cyrenaica, 249, 263
views on advance to Tripoli, 276-7, and resources, 281, 282n
outlines task at Giarabub, 294-5
Officers, Aust, militia, 11, 40
selection for AIF, 43-50, 62, 84-5
calibre of, 204-5
relations with British, 79n
O’Grady, Maj P. H. V. de C., 293, 294, 296
O’Grady’s Dell (Giarabub – Sketch p. 291), 294
Oil, 70
Oldham, Lt-Col A. G., 50n, 72n
O’Leary, Lt S. H., 75n
Onslow, Maj-Gen D. M., see Macarthur-Onslow
Orcades, British transport, 68, 69
Ordnance, at Bardia, 161-2
Orford, British transport, 68, 69
Orion, British transport, 69
Otranto, British transport, 68, 69, 72, 76
Overall, Lt-Col J. W., 62n
Owers, Sgt L. N., 170
–P–
naval power in, 4
predicted course of war in, 8, 9, 22
defence of British interests in, 10
Nationalist-Country Party Coalition Government, 7
Pain, Colonel J. H. F., 93n
Paine, Brig D. D., 102n
Palairet, Sir Michael, 115n
Palestine, 86, 90, 91n, I 1 1, 162
British occupation of, 70
British strength in, 80, 95n, 96, 143
Jewish-Arab relations, 80, and attitude to Great Britain, 94
Italian air raids on, 109n
Papagos, General A., 275
Papua, Defence Act amended to embrace, 28n
Paratroops, 130
Parkhill, Hon Sir Archdale, 19, 20, 23
Parsons, Lt-Col P. A., 83n
Passmore, Pte L. R., 228
Patrols, development by First AIF, 130
Pearce, Rt Hon Sir George, 1, 3
Pearson, Pte S. I., 212
Petain, Marshal, 114
Peter, Prince (of Greece), 121
Philippine Islands, 22
Phillips, Pte M. M., 187
Phillips, Maj-Gen O. F., 43, 45n
Pickett, Sgt A. A., 172
Piesse, E. L. (“Albatross”), 22n
Pilastrino, Fort (Map p. 218; Sketches pp. 226, 234), 225-9, 231, 233, 235, 236
Pipsqueak Valley (Sketch p. 291), 290
Piscatori, General, 138
Primus, General, 117
Platt, Maj-Gen Sir William, 71, 96, 112, 122, 282, 283
Pogradets (Sketch p. 117), 117
Potter 90 (Sidi Barrani-Sketch p. 134), 132, 133, 137
Point 116 (Tobruk-Map p. 218), 224
Point 121 (Tobruk-Map p. 218), 224
Point 125 (Bardia-Sketch p. 154), 152
Point 172 (Bardia), 154
Point 178 (Bardia), 157
Point 211 (Bardia-Sketch p. 141), 140
Poland, German invasion of, 33, 81
Polish Brigade, 91n, 124, 126, 131, 283
Political Parties, Country, 1, 7
attitude to defence, 3, 7, 9, 13-15, 16-17, 18-23, 29n, 37n, 66-7
antipathy towards professional soldiers 11
forms government, 12
abolishes compulsory training, 12-13
defeated at Federal Elections, 15
attitude to expeditionary force, 35, 37, 54, 65, 66-7
proposes increase in AIF pay, 65-6
Liberal, evolution of, 1n
Nationalist, entry of returned soldiers, 1
coalition with Country party, 7
succeeded by United Australia Party, 16
United Australia Party, 1n
forms Government, 16
Politis, Jean, 116
Pollard, Lt-Gen R. G., 303n
Porter, Maj-Gen S. H. W. C., 205, 258, 259, 263, 264
Port Moresby, 34
anti-aircraft defences of, 109n
Port Sudan, 96
anti-aircraft defences of, 109n
Prasca, General Visconti, 117n
Prisoners, Italian, at Sidi Barrani, 138
at Bardia, 199
treatment by Australians, 200
casualties among, at Tobruk, 234
estimated number captured at Tobruk, 238
treatment of, 238-9
at Derna, 252
total in Cyrenaica, 272
Puttick, Lt-Gen Sir Edward, 103
–Q–
Qaret Aim Faris (Sketch p. 141), 140
Qasasa, 161
Queen Mary, British transport, 305
–R–
Rabaul, 34
Rabia (Sketches pp. 134, 139), 132, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139
Raeder, Grand Admiral Erich, 142
Raids, Italian, on 2/2 Fd Regt at Bardia, 188-9
Ramillies, British battleship, 69
Ramla, Wadi (Sketch p. 153), 152, 153
Ramsay, Maj-Gen A. H., 85, 102n
Rangitata, NZ transport, 69
Rations, at Bardia, 152
Recruiting, AIF statistics, 86, 87
lack of Italian enterprise in, 108
Regima, ER, 272
Reidy, Capt R. F., 299, 301, 302
Reinforcements, AIF, 112
quality of, 123n
Repington, Lt-Col C. A’C., 8
RSSAILA, suggests formation of VDC, 87
Reynaud, P., 82
Richmond, Admiral Sir Herbert, 17n, 19
Rickard, Pte P. A. L., 252n
Riedel, Lt K. F., 292
Rimth, el (Sketch p. 134), 136, 137
Rintelen, General von, 277, 278, 279
Risson, Maj-Gen R. J. H., 62n
Road Angle (At Bardia), 180
Roberts, Professor S. H., 16
Robertson, Lt-Gen Sir Horace, 25n, 190, 196, 212, 218, 225, 228, 229, 230, 231, 232, 233. 235n, 244, 246, 247, 248, 249, 250, 252, 255, 257, 260, 264, 265, 267, 272, 273, 274
appointed Comdt 7 MD, 28n
estimate of, 83
at surrender of Tobruk, 236-7
urges employment 19th Brigade for advance to Benghazi, 263
accepts surrender of Benghazi, 274
Robertson, Lt-Col W. T., 227
Rogers, Cpl D. R., 245
Rogers, Brig J. D., 84
Rolfe, Capt C. B. N., 230, 231, 248
Roma, 118, 202, 277, 278, 279, 303
Rommel, Field Marshal Erwin, 294, 303n
appointed comdr of German forces in Africa, 278
plans defence of Tripolitania, 279, 280, 286
arrives Tripoli, 281
Rowan, Et-Coll G., 184, 187, 197, 233, 236
Rowan Wadi (Bardia) (Sketch p. 185), 184
Rowell, Lt-Gen Sir Sydney, 50n, 85, 102n
appointed BGS, I Aust Corps, 84
arrives Palestine, 99
and detachments from AIF, 109
Royal Air Force, See British Air Force
Royal Military College (Duntroon), 5, 19
reduction in intake of cadets, 15
entry of graduates into AIF, 62
Rudero, Fort (Map p. 250), 252
Rumania, 208
delivery of aircraft to, 96n
German diplomatic offensive against, 113
Rungie, Maj M. K., 250
Ruses
use of dummy tanks at Sidi Barrani, 136
artillery deception at Bardia, 161
Russell, Brig H. E., 268
relations with Axis powers, 81, 114
Hitler orders plans for invasion of, 142
Russian Army, tank development in, 127
Ryrie, Maj E. J., 289
Ryrie, Maj-Gen Hon Sir G. de L., 3
–S–
Salisbury Plain, 306, 307, 308, 309
Salum (Sketches pp. 99, 141), 97-8, 110, 140, 141, 145, 148n, 151, 173n
shelling of, by “Bardia Bill” 157-8
Samalus (Sketch p. 134), 136, 137, 138, 139
Sandford, Brig D. A., 282
San Giorgio, Italian cruiser, 230, 238
Savage, Rt Hon M. J., 64
Savige, Capt J. R., 177, 178, 179-80, 181, 183, 236
Savige, Lt-Gen Sir Stanley, 126, 152, 156, 157, 158, 159, 160-1, 173, 177, 180, 180-1, 184, 189n, 191, 196, 217, 218, 229, 230, 233, 235, 242n, 253, 255, 257, 259, 260, 261, 263, 264, 285, 286
appointed Comdr 17 Bde, 47
estimate of, 48
selects 17 Bde CO’s, 49
reactions to ban of German broadcasts, 105
criticises employment of 17 Bde at Tobruk, 235n
Savory, Lt-Gen Sir R., 134
Sayed Idris, 303n
Sayers, Capt H. T., 221
Sceleidima (Map p. 269), 266, 268, 271
Scemmas, Wadi (Map p. 170; Sketches pp. 157, 176), 156, 177, 180, 181, 183, 192
Schmidt, H. W., 280n
Schofield, Lt-Col V. J., 180, 181
Schools, 72-3
Scott, E., 17n
Scott, Sgt J., 186
Scott, Admiral Sir Percy, 8n
Scott, Pte R. N., 186n
Scullin, Rt Hon J. H., 13, 15, 17n, 26
Sehel, Wadi Es (Map p. 218), 238
Selby, Maj-Gen A. R., 18, 133, 136, 137
Sell, Lt-Col G. E., 174, 175, 176, 177, 180, 181, 191, 196
Seymour, WO B., 175n
Shalludi, Bir El (Sketch p. 134), 138
Shanahan, Lt-Col P. M., 248, 252
Shattock, Sgt R. H., 176
Shedden, Sir Frederick, 33, 34, 50n
Sherlock, Capt W. H., 153, 184, 188
Ship Hill (Map p. 300; Sketch p. 291), 295, 297, 301
Shipping, 64-5
Shireisat, El (Sketch p. 134), 137
Sicily, 203, 207, 277, 281, 282
Sidi Azeiz (Sketch p. 144), 141, 161
Sidi Barrani (Sketches pp. 99, 134, 139), 97, 143, 144, 145, 147, 201, 203, 281, 288, 303
Italian advance to, 110-111
the plan of attack, 112-3, 131-3, the fight, 133-8
Italian strength and dispositions at, 132, 138-9
the forces compared, 139-40
Italian losses at, 138, 140, 199, 203n
British casualties at, 138, 203
effect of defeat in Germany, 142, in Italy, 202
Sidi Belgassem, Wadi (Map p. 218), 210, 212
Sidi Bu Hadia (Map p. 250, Sketch p. 258), 255
Sidi Chalifa (Map p. 269), 273
Sidi Mahmud (Map p. 218), 235, 235n
Sidi Omar (Sketch p. 141), 110, 140, 141
Sidi Salem (Map p. 269), 266, 268
Sidi Suleiman (Sketch p. 141), 140, 141
Sidra, Gulf of, 146
Sidret Haraig (Map p. 250), 255
Simpson, Maj-Gen C. H., 85, 102n
Singapore Base, 4, 10, 36, 37, 39
Siret el Chreiba (Sketch p. 247), 242, 243, 244
Siret Medaanat (Map p. 250; Sketch p. 247), 247
Siam (Sketches pp. 276, 279), 276, 277, 279, 280, 285
Sirte, Gulf of, 216
Siwa, (Sketches pp. 99, 287), 133, 287, 295, 303
operations from, 288-94
Skerrett, Lt C. J., 167
Slessor, K., 68n
Slonta (Map p. 269; Sketch p. 243), 247, 253, 260, 264
Smart, Lt-Gen E. K., 45n, 76, 93n
Sham, Lt-Gen Sir Arthur, 105
Smith, Pte A. J., 219
Smith, Capt C. H., 174, 175, 177
Smith, Maj J. A. H., 226, 227, 229, 256
Simms, Field Marshal Rt Hon J. C., 208
Sobieski, Polish transport, 69
Sofafi (Sketches pp. 134, 139), 110, 112, 132, 133, 135 et seq, 201
Solaro, Fort (Map p. 218; Sketches pp. 226, 234), 225, 228, 230-1, 233, 234, 236
Solomon, Sgt J., 182-3
Soluch (Map p. 269), 263, 266, 268, 271
Somaliland, See British, French Somaliland
Somerville, Admiral of Fleet Sir James, 94
Songs, Wizard of Oz, 166n
South African Army: Divisions: 1st, 122, 283
Spain, 23
civil war in, 58-9
relations with Germany, 141, 207
Spender, Hon. Sir Percy, 90n
Spry, Brig C. C. F., 50n
Squires, Lt-Gen E. K., 29n, 42n, 43
his report on Aust Army, 27-8
becomes CGS, 44-5
recommends expansion of AIF, 82-3
death of, 83
Squires, L-Cpl F. W., 193
Staff Corps, 9, 11, 29, 45n, 62
reductions in, 5
overseas experience and exchange duty, 10
remuneration, 11n
Aust and British Army standards compared, 27
slow rate of promotion, 45n
failure to allot commands to, in 6 Div, 45-6
allotted commands in 7 Div, 83
Stanton, Lt C., 194
Stanton, Lt-Col F. A., 222
Starr. Lt-Col P. D. S., 174, 179, 180, 181, 182, 183
Steele, Maj-Gen Sir Clive, 49, 50n, 62n, 85, 102n
Steele, Capt D. G., 292n
Stevens, Maj-Gen Sir Jack, 49, 50n, 83n
Stone, Lt L. L., 232
Strahan, F., 33
Strategy, British, in Middle East, 70-1, 79-80
Strathaird, British transport, 69
Strathallan, British transport, 68
Strathnaver, British transport, 68, 69
Street, Brig Hon G. A., 26, 55, 61, 72n, 84, 90n
death of, 89
Streeter, Sgt J. S., 187
Sturdee, Lt-Gen Sir Vernon H., 28n, 44, 50n, 90n
British strength in, 80, 95, 96
reinforcement of, 112, 122, 140
operations in, 96
Suez Canal, 70
Supply,
at Bardia, 161-2
at Mechili, 249-50
Swiss Army, 30
Switch Line (Bardia – Sketches pp. 157, 188), 157, 158, 159, 160, 174, 179, 180, 181, 182, 183, 184, 188, 191
favoured as naval base, 8
Sydney Lord Mayor’s Patriotic Fund, 76
Sydney Morning Herald, quoted, 38, 54, 67
Symington Brown, Sgt W., 175
–T–
Tactics, box formation, 126
British Army doctrines, 127-30
Tambakis, Pte P., 171
Tamma, Qaret El (Sketch p. 291), 295, 296, 297, 299
Tanks,
British, developments in, 127
numbers employed in France, 129n
losses at Nibeiwa, 135
supporting 6th Division at Bardia, 155
role at, 205
strength at Mechili, 249
losses at Beda Fomm, 271
available for advance to Tripoli, 276-7
Italian, description of, 132n
captured at Sidi Barrani, 135, 138
comparison of British and Italian strengths at, 139
strength at Bardia, 201
losses at, 199
used by Australians at Tobruk, 218-19
losses at, 238
in Cyrenaican campaign, 272
Taranto, attack on Italian fleet at, 121
Taylor, WO2 D. R., 182
Taylor, Maj F. C., 296
Teece, Cpl N. R. C., 251
Tel Aviv (Sketch p. 73), 74, 80, 125
Tellera, General, 202, 211n, 272
Tenos, 113
Terror, British monitor, 161
Thoma, General von, 113
Thomas, Bishop, 16
Thomas, Lt G. I., 252
Thompson, Lt A. F., 224n, 232n
Timms, Lt B. H., 179
Tmed Hassan (Sketch p. 279), 279
Tarim (Sketch p. 243), 198, 214, 241
Tobruk (Map p. 218; Sketches pp. 209, 217, 234), 94, 97, 98, 99, 140, 143, 145, 147, 155, 156, 198, 202, 203, 208, 212, 241, 242, 244, 250, 263, 264, 265, 274, 275, 277, 282, 283, 286, 304
value of, 207
Italian garrison, 209, 216, 239-40
defences of, 210
capture of, 220-38
6th Division casualties, 238n
Italian prisoners, 238-9
looting, 238
Tope, Tpr W. J., 289n
Tracchia, General, 203
Training,
of First AIF, 6
of militia, 30-1
of 6th Division in Aust, 62-3, 67-8
in Egypt, 126
handicapped by equipment shortages, 125-6
and lack of ammunition, 146
standards achieved at Bardia, 203-5
of 6 Cav Regt, 289
lessons of Cyrenaican campaign, 303-4
of Alf. in UK, 307-8
Transport, Motor,
of 6th Division, 53
employment in advance to Benghazi, 263-4
Italian, captured at Bardia, 199
at Tobruk, 238, at Beda Fomm, 272, 281
Travers, Capt W. H., 165, 166, 169, 190, 194
Trevorrow, Lt R. W., 229
Triangle, The (at Bardia), 174, 179, 180
Tripoli (Sketch p. 276), 202, 216, 241, 272, 275, 276, 277, 278, 279, 280, 281, 283, 294
naval bombardment of, 281n
air raids on, 285
Italian strength in, 80, 97, 201, 247, 262, 272
aid to Greece halts advance into, 275-6
discussion of, 276-81
operations on frontier, 282, 284-6
German reinforcement of, 285-6, 294
Trounce, Cpl. E. F., 292n
Tummar (Sketches pp. 134, 139), 110, 112, 132, 133, 135, 137
threat to peace, 6-8
signs Military Convention with Britain and France, 79
British aid to, 96n
Turle, Rear-Admiral, C. E., 121, 122
–U–
Ueddan, Wadi (Map p. 218), 211
Umm Er Rzem, 202
Umm Es Sciausc, Wadi (Map p. 218; Sketch p. 234), 230, 233
Umm Maalif (Sketch p. 141), 140
United Kingdom, see Britain, Great
invites conference on disarmament, 4
conjectural strategy in event of war with Japan, 22
defence expenditure, 1937, 23n
United States Army,
efficiency of, 30
officering of, comparison with British and Australian systems, 30n
Unkles, Cape R. T., 175
–V–
Valiant, British battleship, 108
Van Citters, Lt S., 228
Vasey, Maj-Gen G. A., 50n, 68, 71, 76, 161, 239, 272, 274
rate of promotion, 45n
estimate of, 50
Vickery, Brig N. A., 193
Vietina, Admiral Massimiliano, 237
–W–
Wade, Maj C. A., 296
Walker, Lt-Col T. G., 180, 181, 183n, 191, 205, 259
Walsh, WO K. W., 291
Walstab, Colonel J., 102n
War Book, 34
Ward, Hon E. J., 16, 37, 64, 65
Warfe, Lt-Col G. R., 187, 197, 198, 258, 259
War of 1914-18, effect on literature, 12
importance of part played by AIF, 65n
Water Supply, in Cyrenaica, 98
at Tobruk, 212
Warts, Sgt H. L., 225n
Wavell, Field Marshal Rt Hon Earl, 71, 72, 93n, 96, 104, 105, 108, 109, 119, 129n, 143, 207, 208, 209, 241, 242, 249, 277, 288, 290
becomes C-in-C, Middle East, 70
estimate of, 77-9
his Command, 79-81,
extension of, 121-2
problems of, 94-5
relations with Dominion commanders, 103-4
visits London, 111
orders offensive in East Africa, 122, 140, 282-3
visits Crete, 120-1
decides on offensive in Western Desert, 112
resources for, 131
possibility of exploitation of, 132
orders for employment of AIF, 140, 143-4
quoted on role of infantry at Bardia, 205n
instructs O’Connor to advance to Benghazi, 275
instructed to concentrate on aid to Greece, 275-6
views on advance to Tripoli, 280
selects force for Greece, 283
decides to capture Giarabub, 294
Wearne. Brig W. W., 299
Webb, WO2 B. N., 150
Webb, Pte E. R. A., 167
Webb, Lt F. C., 178
Webster, Lt-Col I. G., 50n
Webster, Lt-Col P. G. C., 248
Weizmann, Dr C., 80
Wentworth, W. C., 22n
West, Rebecca, 58
frontier skirmishes, 98-9, 108
Italian advance ill, 110
Westlund, Lt-Col C. R., 62n
Weston, Pte H. V., 187
White, General Sir Brudenell, 44, 52, 84, 86-7, 88, 90n, 100, 103
becomes CGS, 83
death of, 89-90
White, Gp Capt Hon Sir Thomas, 63
Whitehead, Brig D. A., 5n
Whitford, Maj H. M., 62n
Whittaker, Maj I. K., 124
Williams, Maj D. E., 149, 221, 222, 233, 235
Williams, Brig E. T., 285
Williams, Sgt R. D. G., 221
Williams, Maj-Gen T. R., 45n
Wills, Brig Sir Kenneth, 84, 85
Willsallen, Lt T. P., 220n
Wilson, Field Marshal Lord, 70, 98, 108, 109, 112, 132, 241, 283, 290, 291, 292
outlines tactics to be used at Sidi Barrani, 131
becomes Military Governor of Cyrenaica, 242, assumes command in, 281-2
view, on advance to Tripoli, 277
on AIF discipline, 284n
selected to command expedition to Greece, 285
Wilson, Maj-Gen A. S., 50n, 102n
Wilson, Colonel J. G., 62n
Wiltshire, 307
Wingate, Maj-Gen O. C., 282
Wizard of Oz, 166n
Wood, Sgt R. C., 282n
Woodhill, Capt P. J., 166n
Woodward, Lt-Gen Sir Eric, 50n
Woolley, Col S. F., 232n
Woolmer Forest, 310
Wootten, Maj-Gen Sir George, 5n, 59, 72, 123n, 294-6, 298-9, 301, 302, 303
Wootten House (Sketch p. 291), 295, 297
Wright, Pte F., 231
Wyatt, Sgt A. J., 172
Wynter, Lt-Gen H. D., 22n, 28n, 50n, 85, 86, 101-2, 120, 308
examines Singapore base theory, 8-9
relegated to junior post, 19
appointed commander AIF in UK, 306,
organises force in UK, 306-7
appointed GOC 9th Division, 310
–Y–
Yannina (Sketch p. 117), 116, 117
YMCA, 74
Yugoslavia, 119