Index

Ships of all nationalities are in their alphabetical places in italics. Groups, Wings, Squadrons and other units of the RAF are under Royal Air Force. Squadrons of the F.A.A. are under Fleet Air Arm. Squadrons of the R.A.A.F. and S.A.A.F. are under Royal Australian Air Force and South African Air Force. Corps, Divisions and Brigades of the British Army are under those headings. Formations of the German and Italian Armies are under the headings German Army and Italian Army. All army units are in their alphabetical places in the index.

–A–

Abd el Galil Seif en Nasr, Sheikh: 297, 354

Abdullah Ibn Hussein, Emir of Transjordan: 15, 88

Aboukir, aircraft depot

description of, 70 air attacks on, 113

Abyssinia: see Ethiopia

Addis Ababa: Italian forces at, 93, 166

air attacks on, 178

entry of, 391, 396, 420-2

Addis Derra: operations near, 426

Aden: importance of, 5, 16

independent air command in, 31, 94, 420

garrison at, 32, 94

land command in, 63

airfields at, 69, 72

reinforcement of, 83

no land threat to, 89, 189

air forces at, 96, 114, 178, 261, 450

air defence of, 213

Administration: definition of term, 59

see also Middle East base and under each Service.

Administration in a particular campaign or area is indexed under the general heading

Administrative units: scarcity of, 66

Admiralty: on role of Mediterranean Fleet, 18, 98

decides to use storage accommodation at Haifa, 27, 75

and Allied naval co-operation, 27

and Malta, 30, 217-8

and command in Middle East, 33

controls merchant ships, 42, 43, 77

orders Destroyer Flotilla to Gibraltar, 43

and contraband control, 45, 99

orders Admiral Cunningham to Malta, 47, 77

asked for guidance on course of war, 52

and air reconnaissance in Mediterranean, 72, 307

and floating dock for Alexandria, 75-6

and base facilities, 77

and air defence of Haifa, 79

and reinforcements for Mediterranean Fleet, 82, 155, 313, 321

anxious for safety of Dominion convoys, 84

and submarines, 110

and attack on merchant ships, 111

cancels sweep by French squadron, 124

controls Force H, 126

and French Fleet, 130, 132, 136-40, 143

on role of naval forces in Mediterranean, 155

and reinforcements for Malta, 159

and proposal for regional War Council, 185

and Dakar operation, 216

on reduction of Mediterranean Fleet, 299

orders enquiry on Spartivento action, 307

and convoy EXCESS, 307

and WORKSHOP, 307

agrees to bombardment of Genoa, 329

Aegean Sea: 98, 111, 147

contraband control in, 46

Italian policy in, 89

Agordat: battle at, 400-1

Duke of Aosta’s orders for, 402

Agreements: see Treaties

Air Headquarters, Middle East: 95, 197

Air Ministry: and Malta, 30

and Mediterranean Command, 31

and reinforcement and rearmament of Middle East, 61, 71, 193-4, 199, 252, 374

discuss maintenance facilities, 71

and administration, 94

and Takoradi air route, 196-7

and attack of dams, 329

and aid to Greece, 339

Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Middle East: see Mitchell, Longmore, and, for joint action, Commanders-in-Chief

Air Officer Commanding, Royal Air Force, Middle East: 3, 11, 31

now see Mitchell, Longmore, (Air Officers Commanding-in-Chief)

Airone: destroyed, 221

Air Reconnaissance: agreed number of squadrons in Mediterranean, 72

need for more, 147, 161, 204, 307, 313

need for suitable aircraft, 193, 194

Air reinforcement scheme, inter-command: 18-19, 41

Ajax, HMS: for Mediterranean Fleet, 192: engages enemy, 221-2

takes units to Crete, 229, 242

in encounter with Italian convoy, 238

in convoy operations, 320

Albania: Governor of see Jacomoni

Commander in see Prasca, Soddu

invasion of, 24

Italian divisions in, 224, 225, 334, 337

estimated air forces in, 234

campaign in, 333-5, 336-7

Alexandria: see also French squadron at

as Fleet base, 9-10, 31, 63-4, 74-9, 90, 198

air defence of, 36, 80, 213-4, 232, 261-2, 288

importance of, 36

Fortress Commander of, 36, 102, 213-4

naval forces at, 42

airfields at, 78

floating dock at, 76, 80

defences to be manned, 83

air attacks on, 113, 164, 213-4

as a port, 250

Algeria: see North Africa

Allen, Brigadier A. S.: 282

Alpenveilchen’: 337

Aly Maher Pasha: 54, 121

Amba Alagi: battle of, 391, 396, 442-7

Anglo-Iranian oilfields: 1

defence of, 15, 49, 62,129,187

Anti-Aircraft Defence Commander, Alexandria: 214

Aosta, Duke of, Viceroy of Ethiopia: visits Rome, 165

instructed on military policy, 165-6, 429, 447

on general situation, 167, 429-32

uneasy about French Somaliland, 167-8

and Italian capture of Kassala, 170

and capture of British Somaliland, 174, 176n

and internal rebellion, 184, 448

and activity round Kassala, 399

his orders for Agordat and Barentu, 402, 431

enquiries into raid on El Wak, 408

on bombardment of Modun, 416

his orders for 101st and 102nd Colonial Divisions, 416

negotiates about safety of civilians, 420, 444

mentioned, 422

changes system of reserves, 429

orders formation of areas of resistance, 429, 432

orders evacuation of western Eritrea, 430

simplifies system of command, 431

Frusci’s reports to, 439

orders resistance at Massawa, 442

in his final stand at Amba Alagi, 391, 396, 442, 444, 446-7

surrender of, 446

Aphis, HMS: bombardments by, 212, 266, 271, 278, 284

lands water, 280

in Inshore Squadron, 290

Aquilone: sunk, 211

Aquitania, s.s.: 244n

Arab Legion: role of, 16

Arethusa, HMS: 47

(class) 75

Argonauto: sunk, 149

Argus, HMS: with fighters for Malta, 159-60, 241, 243-4

with fighters to Takoradi, 195

Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, 1st Bn: 270

Ariel: blows up, 221

Ark Royal, HMS: in Force H, 126

mentioned, 131, 156n, 321

and action at Oran, 132n, 136, 137

in diversionary operations, 155

operations of aircraft, 160, 202, 242, 330-1

in convoy operations, 201, 300-1, 310, 316-7

in operation to reinforce Malta, 243

in action off Cape Spartivento, 301-6

in bombardment of Genoa, 328-31

Armistice, French: 122, 123, 124

terms of, 125, 167, 185, 225

Armoured Car Company, No. 2, RAF: 259

Armstrong, Brigadier B. F.: 409

Army/Air Component: 264

Army in Middle East: during Ethiopian crisis, 4

reinforcements for, 12, 56-7, 62, 84, 190-2, 245-7, 374

in 1938 crisis, 17

system of command in, 31-2

on eve of war with Germany, 41-2, with Italy, 97, 100

policy for expansion of, 62

organization of, 103-6

state of, 188-9

Artigliere: sunk, 221

Asmara: surrender of, 441

Assab: air attacks on airfield, 114

Atbara: importance of, 168

air attacks on, 170

Attlee, Rt. Hon. C. R.: 191n

Auckland, HMS: 178

Augusta: air attacks on, 154, 161

Australia: see also Australian Government

declares war on Germany and expands defence forces, 57

Australian Battalions:

2/1st: 284

2/2nd: 284-7

2/3rd: 284-6, 291

2/5th: 286

2/6th: 286

2/7th: 286

2/8th: 286, 291-3

2/11th: 287

Australian Divisional Cavalry Regiment: 283-4, 293

Australian Government: anxious for safety of Dominion convoys, 84

wish to keep contingents intact, 84-5, 295

and fleet for Far East, 126

and the decision to help Greece, 381, 386-7

Australian land forces: arrive in Middle East, 57, 84

Austria: invaded, 12, 17

Auto-Saharan companies: 294, 297

Awash: Aosta’s orders for defence of, 432

capture of, 419

–B–

Babini General: 352-3

Badoglio, Marshal: advises against entry into war, 83

on Italian naval policy, 145

on military policy in East Africa, 165-6, 429

annoyed about French Somaliland, 168

on invasion of Greece, 225-6, 337

position of, 363

Bagnold, Major R.A.: 294-6

Balbo, Marshal: delivers proclamation to Arabs, 8

death of, 113

intentions of 118

succeeded by Graziani, 207

Balkans: British policy towards, 49, 50, 53, 122, 372, 374 et seq., 395

threat to, 49-83

Baluch Regiment, 10th, 4th Bn: 438

Bande Nere: 156, 158

‘Barbarossa’: 240, 349

Bardera: advance on, 416

Bardia: naval bombardments of, 110, 113, 150, 162-3, 278, 286

air attacks on, 253, 261

capture of 271, 275, 277-8, 281-7

Barentu: action at, 401

Duke of Aosta’s orders for, 402

Barham, HMS: returns to U.K., 47

relieves Ramillies, 156n

for Mediterranean Fleet, 218, 299

in operation COAT, 241-2

bombards Bardia, 286

mentioned, 309

in convoy operations, 320

Barker, Sir Henry: 147

Barker, Lieut.-General M. G. H.: 55

Bartolomeo Colleoni: [.156-8]

Basra: development of port, 62, 66

Battisti: scuttled, 441

Battle of Britain: 251

Beaverbrook, Lord: 191n

Beda Fomm: battle of, 356-62

Belai Zalleka, Lij: 426

Belgium: invasion of, 88

Benghazi: British air attacks on, 211, 261

importance of attacking, 217-8

capture of important, 343, 344, 346, 351

plan for attack on, 355-6

entered, 359

enemy air attacks on, 365-6, 374

no serious operation beyond, 365, 372

Benina: air attacks on, 211, 266

Benois M.: 189

Bentinck, Major Count A. W. D.: 184, 404-5

Berbera: defence of, 98, 573 et seq.

Italians enter, 177

recapture of, 396, 455, 417

Beresford-Peirse, Major-General N. M. de la P.: in battle of Sidi Barrani, 267, 269- 70

and advance to Kassala, 400

and battle at Agordat, 401

and battle of Keren, 434-5

Bergonzoli, Lieut.-General: 282, 287, 361

Berillo: sunk, 220

Bernotti, Admiral R.: 331-2

Bertello, Brigadier-General: 174

Berti, General: in advance into Egypt, 208

told of activity in Nibeiwa-Rabia gap, 273

on leave, 281

replaced, 287

Bertoldi, Lieut.-General: 174

Berwick, HMS: in operation COAT, 241

leaves Mediterranean, 299-302, 306

damaged, 304, 311

Bhagat, 2nd Lieut. P. S.: 401

Birks, Colonel H. L.: 267

Black Watch, 2nd Bn: goes to Aden, 78, 128

in British Somaliland, 173, 177, 189

Blamey, Lieut.-General Sir Thomas: 295, 365

Blenheims, bomber aircraft: heat distortion of, 73

(Mark I) compared with S.79, 96

range of, 112

(Mark IV) no spares for, 115

superior to Mark I, 193

Board of Enquiry: on action off Cape Spartivento, 307

Bolzano class: 153

Bomba: air attacks on, 164

Bombardment, air and sea: policy for, 28-9n, 86

Bomber Command, RAF: 12, 194, 233, 313

Bonaventure, HMS: 316-18, 321

Bonetti, Admiral: 441-2

Bordeaux Government: see Vichy Government

Borea: sunk, 211

Boustead, Colonel J. E. H.: 424-5

Boyd, Captain D. W.: 319

Boyd, Air Marshal O. T.: 254n

Bragadin, Captain M. A.: 332

Breconshire, HMS: 317, 323

Bretagne: blows up, 136

Brigades:

Armoured:

4th: in first patrols, 118-9

in battle of Sidi Barrani, 267, 269-70

and pursuit to Bardia, 270-1

and capture of Tobruk, 287

near Mechili, 351, 353

reinforced, 356

in battle of Beda Fomm, 358-9, 361

7th: 97

in battle of Sidi Barrani, 269-70

and capture of Bardia, 270, 282

and capture of Tobruk, 287

near Derna, 351

Australians relieve, 353

cannibalized, 356

ordered to Antelat, 359

Infantry:

Cairo: 37, 42

1st East African: 181

1st South African: in Kenya, 181

in raid on El Wak, 408

in capture of Kismayu, 412-3

in reserve 416

under command 11th African Division, 417

advances to Diredawa, 419

in action at Combolcha, 443

in battle of Amba Alagi, 446

for Egypt, 449

2nd East African: 181

2nd South African: in Kenya, 407

penetrates Galla-Sidamo, 409

relieved, 411, 422

arrives at Berbera, 418

for Egypt, 422, 449

5th Indian: in battle of Sidi Barrani, 259n, 268-9

and advance to Kassala, 400

at Agordat, 401

in the battle of Keren, 434-5, 437

5th South African: in Kenya, 407

penetrates Galla-Sidamo, 409

relieved, 411

sails to Egypt, 422, 449

7th Indian: 259n

near Port Sudan, 399

in advance on Asmara, 433, 436-7

in capture of Massawa, 441-2

9th Indian: at Butana Bridge, 397

at Gallabat, 399, 401

at Gedaref, 402

in the battle of Keren, 437-9

captures Asmara, 441

and battle of Amba Alagi, 443, 445-6

10th Indian: and attack on Gallabat, 397-8

for attack on Kassala, 399

and action at Barentu, 400-1

in battle of Keren, 439

in capture of Massawa, 442

and battle of Amba Alagi, 443

11th Indian: arrives in Egypt, 38

continues training, 42

in battle of Sidi Barrani, 259n, 267

for attack on Kassala, 399

at Agordat, 400-1

in battle of Keren, 433-5, 437

14th (British): 97, 242

16th Australian: for Egypt, 271

and capture of Bardia, 278, 282-6

and capture of Tobruk, 287, 291

16th (British): in battle of Sidi Barrani, 259n, 269-70

and pursuit to Bardia, 271, 278, 283

helps at Sollum, 280

part of 6th Division, 375

17th Australian: and capture of Bardia, 282, 286-7

and capture of Tobruk, 291

near Derna, 356

at Benghazi, 359

18th (British): 38, 42

19th Australian: formation of, 283

in capture of Bardia, 286-7

and capture of Tobruk, 287, 291

near Derna, 353, 356

at Slonta, 359

at El Magrun, 361

21st East African: relieves South African brigades, 411

ordered to Isha Baidoa, 416

under command 12th African Division, 422

22nd East African: in capture of Kismayu, 412-3

cuts Mogadishu road, 415

pursues to Modun, 416

under command 11th African Division, 417

in capture of Awash, 419

pursue south-west, 421

23rd Nigerian: in Kenya, 181

in capture of Kismayu, 412-3

at Mabungo, 416

reaches Mogadishu, 416

in advance to Harar, 417-9

24th Gold Coast: in Kenya, 181

and capture of Kismayu, 412-3

crosses Juba, 415

ordered to Bardera, 416

activities of, 422

25th East African: at Lokitaung, 409

at Namaraputh, 411

under command 12th African Division, 422

29th Indian: guards Sudan frontier, 397

for attack on Kassala, 399

in action at Barentu, 401

in the battle of Keren, 434-5, 438

in battle of Amba Alagi, 443, 445

Brigade d’Orient: 436, 442

Briggs, Brigadier H. R.: 436

Brink, Major-General G. L.: 407

and capture of Moyale, 409

and advance to Harar, 416

brigades under command of, 422

British Ambassador in Cairo: see Lampson

British Ambassador in Rome: told of Italy’s neutrality, 42, 81

reports on Italian situation, 48, 88

given declaration of war, 109

British Expeditionary Force: 190

British Government: see Cabinet, War Cabinet, and Defence Committee

British Minister in Athens: 230

British Minister at Belgrade: 382

British Somaliland: command in, 63, 98, 172

reinforcements for, 83, 98, 172

threat to, 89, 127

forces in, 94, 172-3

Italians plan operation against, 168

defence of, 171-3

loss of, 174-9

re-capture of, 417-8

Buchanan, Brigadier F. L. A.: 409

Bulgaria: German entry into, 239, 334, 338, 345, 346, 348

promises Germany her support, 347

openly allies with Axis, 382

Burye: Italians leave, 424

–C–

Cabinet: and Three Power Enemy warning, 5, 24

decides Italy no longer reliable friend, 8, 30

and reinforcement of Middle East, 12

suggests staff talks with French, 20

and Malta, 30

and defence of Suez Canal, 37

now see War Cabinet

Cagliari: air attacks on, 160, 202, 242

Calabria: action off, 150-4, 163

Calcutta, HMS: for Mediterranean Fleet, 156n, 201

convoy operations of, 300, 317

Caledon, HMS: 148

bombards Bardia, 150

in landing at Berbera, 417

Calypso, HMS: sunk, 109

Camel Corps, Sudan Defence Force: 168n

Cameron Highlanders, 2nd Bn Queen’s Own: 267-8, 433n

Cameroons: declare for de Gaulle, 142

Campbell, Lieut. A.G.S.: 444, 446

Campioni, Admiral Angelo: in action off Calabria, 153-4

in action off Cape Spartivento, 302-5

replaced, 331

Cape Spada: action off, 156-9

Cape Spartivento: action off, 301-7

Capetown, HMS: 47, 148

bombards Bardia, 150

in Force T, 412n

torpedoed, 441

Carlisle, HMS: 178

Carnimeo, General: 433

Casardi, Rear-Admiral: 156-8

Cassels, General Sir Robert: 187

Castel Benito: air attacks on, 266

Castelorizo: attack on, 159

landing on, 326

Casualties: in action against French Fleet, 136

in loss of Kassala, 170

in loss of British Somaliland, 178-9

in Libya, 206

in Ajax’s action, 222

in desert patrols, 264

in battle of Sidi Barrani, 268, 270, 273

in capture of Bardia, 287

in capture of Tobruk, 293

in Illustrious, 319

in Southampton, 320

in landing on Castelorizo, 326

in Western Desert campaign, 362

in British attack on Gallabat, 399

in capture of Bulo Erillo, 413

in campaign from Kenya to Addis Ababa, 422

in East Africa Force, June ‘40 to May ‘41, 423

in Italian evacuation of Burye, 424

in battle of Keren, 435, 439

in action at Combolcha, 444

Catania: air attacks on, 150, 321

Caunter, Brigadier J. A. L.: 267

Cavagnari, Admiral: 145, 337

Cavallero, General: 337, 363

Cavour: damaged, 236-7

(class) in action off Calabria, 153

Ceres, HMS: 178, 412n

Chad Province: declares for de Gaulle, 142, 196

and the Long Range Desert Group, 296-7

Chad Regiment, 3rd Bn: 436

Chakmak, Marshal: 90

Chamberlain, Rt. Hon. Neville: see Prime Minister

Chater, Lieut.-Colonel (later Brigadier) A. R.: 172-3, 418

Chatfield Committee: 38

Cheesman, Major R. E.: 182

Chief of Naval Staff: on French Fleet, 130, 135

on operation HATS, 191

Chief of the Air Staff: 251

Chief of the Imperial General Staff: and reinforcements for Middle East, 190

asks for date of capture of Benghazi, 356

on mission in the Middle East, 372, 374-5, 377, 379-80, 382-6, 388

dislikes postponement of Kismayu operation, 393

allows retention of brigades in Kenya, 394

Chiefs of Staff (British): give Three Power Enemy warning, 5, 11, 20

emphasize need for peaceful Mediterranean, 7, 11, 39, 45

advise on Palestine Conference, 16

responsibilities of, 33n

and High command in Middle East, 33

and Middle East Intelligence Centre, 34

and air defence of Alexandria, 36

and defence of Suez Canal, 37

and warning telegram, 41

consider operation of RAF units in Turkey, 61, 255, 346

review military policy in Middle East, 61, 99, 129

asked for guidance, 85

and Salonika project, 86

little to spare for Middle East, 87, 99

and support for Turkey, 90, 239, 372

approve Admiral Cunningham’s initial objects, 99

consider withdrawal of Mediterranean Fleet, 124

and defence of Malta, 161, 217, 219, 324, 344

and British Somaliland, 171

and reinforcements for Middle East, 187, 191-2, 217, 245, 252, 313, 345

given Wavell’s review, 187-90, 205

their relations to Defence Committee, 191n

and Prime Minister’s Directive, 197

on visit of Turkish officers to Egypt, 215

emphasize need for attacking Benghazi, 217

and Greece, 224, 231, 255, 338-9, 342, 377, 380-1, 386

and Crete, 232

and WORKSHOP, 308-9, 324-5

on operations against the Dodecanese, 325, 343, 345-6

on the capture of Benghazi, 343, 346, 351

instruct creation of strategic reserve, 344

convinced about German move into Bulgaria, 345-6

announce ‘no serious operation beyond Benghazi’, 365

desire victory in East Africa, 394-5

Chiefs of Staff (Italian): told of Italian war policy, 89

discuss naval policy, 145

China Station: 82

Churchill, Rt. Hon. Winston S.: see Prime Minister

Ciano, Count: and neutrality of Italy, 42, 81

on shortage of metals, 88n

gives declaration of war, 109

on Graziani’s advance, 209n

in Berlin, 225, 240

and invasion of Greece, 226, 228n

Clan Cumming, s.s.: 316

Clan Forbes, s.s.: 299

Clan Fraser, s.s.: 299

Clan Macaulay, s.s.: 317, 322-3

Clan Macdonald, m.v.: 316

Clayton, P.A.: 294-5

COAT

230n, 241-3

Coldstream Guards, 3rd Bn: 209-10, 296

COLLAR

299 et seq. 310

Collins, Captain J. A., R.A.N.: 156

Collis, Flight Lieutenant R. A.: 404

Collishaw, Air Commodore R.: see also 202 Group

commands in Western Desert, 97

his first operations, 112, 113

sole Hurricane for, 113-4

his need for economy, 206

in battle of Sidi Barrani COMPASS, 262, 272

strikes at Italian Air Force, 353

activities during Italian withdrawal, 357

Colonial Office: 31, 34, 172

Combe, Lieut.-Colonel J. F. B.: 358-60

Combined Operations School: 308

Combolcha: action at, 443-4

Commandant Teste: [.137]

Commander-in-Chief, East Indies: responsibilities of, 32-3, 248

in system of Command, 33, 94

on defence of British Somaliland, 172

Commander-in-Chief, Mediterranean: see also Pound, Cunningham and, for joint action, Commanders-in-Chief

3, 11

in system of command, 32, 33

Commander-in-Chief, Middle East: see Wavell and, for joint action, Commanders-in-Chief

Commanders-in-Chief: as triumvirate, 33-4, 94

meet in Warspite, 34-5

and warning telegram, 41, 43

and non-provocation of Italy, 45

meet Weygand, 50-1, 88

have no control over material to Turkey, 52

feel need for guidance, 52, 85

and discussions with Turkey, 53, 85, 89-90, 256

told no important moves necessary, 82

receive Directive on military policy, 85, 99

receive bombardment instructions, 86

and air support for Turkey, 87

told to rely upon own resources, 87, 99

concerned over Egyptian situation, 89

on outbreak of Italian war, 109

told policy re Free French Forces, 128

and operation HATS, 192

relations with Prime Minister, 200

and air defence, 213-4

and visit of Turkish officers, 215

aware of importance of Benghazi, 218

and occupation of Crete, 228, 229, 232

and Greece, 231, 233, 338-9, 342, 372, 374-5, 377, 386-8

and battle of Sidi Barrani, 261

on entry of Egypt into war, 277

and capture of Bardia, 277

and capture of Tobruk, 281, 287

and WORKSHOP, 308

on need for more air reconnaissance, 313

and operations against Dodecanese, 324-5, 344, 346

have insufficient resources, 328, 344-5, 372-3

and capture of Benghazi, 344, 346, 351

and formation of strategic reserve, 344

Balkan situation of first importance to, 346, 395

unable to go faster in East Africa, 395

Commando, 51st (Middle East): 437, 443

Commando (Special Service) troops: landing prevented, 271

despatch of to Middle East, 325, 343-4

land on Castelorizo, 326

Committee of Imperial Defence: 30, 33, 119

COMPASS: 230, 239, 253, 259-75

Conferences: on Palestine, 14, 16-7

between Chamberlain and Hitler, 17

(with French) scope of, 20-1

in London, 23,

in North Africa, 23-4, 25-6, 294,

at Aden, 23-4, 25, 26, 171, 182,

in Palestine, 23-4, 25, 26-7,

at Malta, 28-9

(with Turks) at Aleppo, 53, 85,

at Beirut, 89-90, 122,

at Ankara, 256, 345-6, 381-2

(with Greeks) at Athens, 340-2, 382-5,

at Tatoi, 377-80

at Khartoum, 392, 398

at Cairo, 393-4

Console Generale Luizzi: [.148]

Constantinople Convention: 2, 3n, 12, 37, 46

Contraband control in Mediterranean: 44-8, 99

Convoys: scheme for, 11

diversion of Dominion, 84

in Red Sea, 112, 248-9

general cycle of, 244-5

during Albanian war, 335

Cork and Orrery, Earl of, Admiral of the Fleet: 307

Cornwall, s.s.: 202

Corps:

1st Australian: 365

13th: birth of, 104, 289

under Wavell, 289

casualties in, 293

information of, 352

relieved by 1st Australian, 365

Coventry, HMS: for Mediterranean Fleet, 156n, 201

in convoy operations, 300-2, 306

C.R.42, Italian fighter: compared with Gladiator, 96

compared with Hurricane, 272

Creagh, Major-General M. O’Moore: 259, 358-9

Crete: see also Suda Bay

defence of, 85, 190, 224

Hitler offers airborne troops for, 226

British occupation of, 228-9

Greek troops withdrawn from, 232

reinforcements and supplies for, 241-2

Critchley, Captain, R. A.: 403

Cruiser Squadron, 1st: 47

Cruiser Squadron, 3rd: bombards Bardia, 150

mentioned, 162n

and operation HATS, 202-3

goes to support of Ajax, 221

covers COLLAR convoy, 306

Cruiser Squadron, 7th: 148, 149

in action off Calabria, 150

and COLLAR convoy, 300

and bombardment of Valona, 310

Cub Cub: engagement at, 436

Cunningham, Admiral Sir Andrew B.: see also Commanders-in-Chief

Admiral Ollive visits, 28

career of, 28n

and location of headquarters, 33

and air defence of Alexandria, 35-6, 213-4

parts with 3rd Destroyer Flotilla, 43

and contraband control, 45

transfers flag to Malta, 47, 77

visits Turkey, 50

and Salonika project, 51, 87

feels need of guidance, 52

confident that Canal and Red Sea will be open, 75

and Malta floating dock, 76

anxious about base facilities, 77, 80

anxious about air defence of Haifa, 79

flies flag in Warspite, 84, 91

and French squadron, 84, 124, 131, 138-41, 215-6

to provide ships for Crete force, 85-6, 99

and destroyer shortage, 91, 109, 155, 204, 216, 313

and defence of Malta, 98, 99, 120, 147, 156, 161, 217-8

objects of, 98-9, 145, 146, 314

on lack of air reconnaissance, 99, 147, 156, 204, 307

first fleet operation of, 109-10

and submarine operations, 110, 217

and attack of merchant ships, 111, 147

abandons Malta as submarine base, 119

and Force H, 126, 143, 154

and action against French Fleet, 131, 139, 143

shipping policy of, 147

and convoy operations, 149, 191-2, 201-3, 219-22, 241-3, 300, 306-7, 309, 311, 317-8, 320

on co-operation of Air Force, 150

in action off Calabria, 150-4

on role and composition of Fleet, 155-6, 299, 321, 344

on rescue of survivors, 158

and operation HURRY, 159

in bombardment of Bardia, 286

and danger to Fleet from air attack, 163, 191, 212

on proposal far regional War Council, 185

and Crete, 190

and Prime Minister’s directive, 198

responsible for Malta, 218

and composition of convoys to Malta, 219

and HMS Ajax, 221-2

reactions to Italian invasion of Greece, 228-9

and attack on Taranto, 235-6, 238

on WORKSHOP, 308-9

visits Malta, 310

on the escape of the Illustrious, 323

favours bombardment of Genoa, 329

unable to stock Benghazi, 365

on danger from mines, 373, 387

and aid to Greece, 377-8, 385, 387

Cunningham, Lieut.-General A. G.: told of Western Desert offensive, 265, 393

in East African campaign, 391

and capture of Kismayu, 392-5, 408, 411-3

future operations of, 393-4

and crossing of the Juba, 413

and advance to Mogadishu, 395, 411-2, 415

and advance to Harar, 395-6, 415-6, 419

and entry into Addis Ababa, 396, 420-2

told to secure Addis Ababa-Asmara road, 396, 443

liaison with Emperor, 406

opens up Galla-Sidamo, 409, 411

controls Patriot operations, 426

and safety of Italian civilians, 444

and battle of Amba Alagi, 446

Cyprus: as Fleet base, 9

Allied policy towards, 27

command in, 32, 63n

defence of, 190

air defence of, 214

Cyprus Regiment: 280

Cyrenaica Command: 364-5

Cyrenaica: garrison for, 375

see also Libya

–D–

Dakar: landing at, 215-6

D’Albiac, Air Commodore (later Air Vice-Marshal) J. H.: commands air contingent in Greece, 233

Directive to, 463-5

policy of, 234, 334, 336

Daniel, Brigadier H.: 408

Danube: operations in, 53

barges escape from, 162

German crossing of, 348, 382

Darlan, Admiral: orders North Africa to fight on, 123

and fate of French Fleet, 130, 138

mentioned, 136

text of signal of 24th June, 462

Debra Markos: investment of, 424-5

Decoy, HMS: 109, 326

Defence Committee: description of, 191n

and reinforcements for Middle East, 192

reactions to Italian invasion of Greece, 229-30

and WORKSHOP, 309, 325

orders creation of strategic reserve, 328

and aid to Greece, 339

on Middle East policy, 371-2

disagrees with surrender terms at Addis Ababa, 421

Defence Co-ordination Committee in Egypt: 20

de Gaulle, General: rallies Frenchmen, 127-8

Chad Province rallies to, 142

mentioned, 354

Dekheila: naval armament depot at, 77, 78

Della Mura, Major-General: 293

Denmark: invasion of, 82, 85

Deputy Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief: 254

Derna: air attacks on, 164, 261

Italian forces at, 352

evacuation of, 354

De Simone, Major-General: in capture of British Somaliland, 174

replaces Pesenti, 409

ordered to redispose Colonial Divisions, 416

given orders for defence of Juba, 431

ordered to resist on Awash, 432

remains of his forces, 447

Despatch, HMS: 300, 302

Destroyer Flotilla, 2nd: on anti-submarine sweep, 99, 109

in convoy operations, 148

in action off Cape Spada, 156-8

Destroyer Flotilla, 3rd: 43

Deutsches Afrika Korps: [.369]

Devonshire, HMS: 47

Diamante: sunk, 110

Dick, Captain R. M.: 377

Dickinson, Major-General D. P.: appointed G.O.C. East Africa Force, 180

task of, 181

plans of, 392

achievements of, 407

helped by South African Government, 423

relieved, 393, 408

Dill, General Sir John: on mission to Middle East, 372, 374-5, 377, 379-10, 382-6, 388

Diredawa: Italian forces at, 93

air attacks on, 114

British enter, 419

Divisions

Armoured: see 7th Armoured Division

Mobile: see 7th Armoured Division

1st African: 181

1st Cavalry: for Palestine, 56, 62

parts with transport, 69

state of, 93

history of, 104

1st South African: 181, 247

to be moved to Egypt, 375

Cunningham may have to part with, 395

in Kenya, 407

to open up Galla-Sidamo, 409

H.Q. sails to Egypt, 422

2nd African: 181

2nd Armoured mentioned, 246

arrival of, 291

for Western Desert, 355, 365

and the battle of Beda Fomm, 357n

2nd New Zealand: for Egypt, 62, brigade group diverted, 84

state of, 93

known to Italians, 207

mentioned, 247

for Greece, 375, 385

4th Indian

second brigade joins, 56

parts with transport, 69

state of, 93, 188

parts with field regiment, 175

given third brigade, 247n

in battle of Sidi Barrani, 259-65, 270, 272, 274, 279

for the Sudan, 265, 271, 393, 399

and attack on Kassala, 399-400

in the battle of Keren, 375, 433-9

Prime Minister praises, 441

for Egypt, 441,449

5th Indian: destination of, 129n, 171, 175, 187, 189, 192, 197, 198, 199

mentioned, 247

arrives in Sudan, 396-7, 429

tasks of, 397

and attack on Kassala, 399-400

in the battle of Keren, 375, 434-5, 437, 439

Prime Minister praises, 441

maintained through Massawa, 442

in battle of Amba Alagi, 443

for Egypt, 449

6th Australian: brigade arrives in Middle East, 84

brigade diverted, 84, 283

for Western Desert Force, 265, 271, 278

maintenance of, 280-1, 288

in capture of Bardia, 283, 287

state of, 283

near Derna, 353, 355

enters Cyrene, 357

progress of, 359

6th (British): 97, 375

7th Armoured: (as Mobile Division) 19, 37

(as Armoured Division) 19n, 37, 41, 54, short of transport, 68-9

(as 7th Armoured Division) 19n

transport of, 69

moves to Western Desert, 83

state of, 93, 105, 186, 188, 200, 355

on eve of war with Italy, 97

controls covering force, 118

mentioned, 205, 247

known to Italians, 207

dispositions of, 211

in battle of Sidi Barrani, 259, 261-2, 267, 272

and capture of Bardia, 271, 278-9

maintenance of, 281, 288-9

in capture of Tobruk, 290

Babini escapes from, 353

to advance to Msus, 355

and the battle of Beda Fomm, 356-7, 360, 362

relieved by 2nd, 365

brigade for Cyrenaican garrison, 375

7th Australian: 247

10th Armoured: 104

11th African: 181

brigades of, 417

maintenance of, 418

remains in I.E.A 450

12th African: 181

in raid on El Wak, 408

in capture of Kismayu, 412

ordered to Bardera and Isha Baidoa, 416

brigades under command of, 422

remains in I.E.A., 450

50th: 374

Dobbie, Lieutenant-General Sir William: as Governor and C.-in-C., Malta, 120

meetings of, 218

and Navy’s losses, 323

and Malta as base for attack, 324

Docks: problems of, 249-50

Dodecanese Islands: plans for operations against, 27, 85, 86, 87, 90, 309, 324-5, 345

air threat from, 148, 214, 324, 343, 344-5

air attacks on, 203, 301, 309

bombardment of, 203, 222

operations against, 325-6

operations against postponed, 385, 386

Dominion forces: organization of, 105

Doria: [.163]

d’Ornano, Lieut.-Colonel: 297

Drummond, Air Commodore (later Air Vice-Marshal) R. M.: 61

Duff Cooper, Rt. Hon. A.: 127

Duilio: modernization of, 163

damaged, 237

at Genoa, 330, 332

Duke of Edinburgh’s Own Rifles, 1st Bn: 444

Dunkerque: [.91]

at Oran, 130

and action at Oran, 132-3, 136-7

Dunkirk: 71, 190

Durazzo: Italian landings at, 24

capacity of, 234

air attacks on, 234, 334, 336

–E–

Eagle, HMS: arrives in Mediterranean, 84

capacity of, 102

in first fleet operation, 109-10

in convoy operations, 148, 202, 300-1, 320

in action off Calabria, 150-3

operations of her aircraft, 154, 159, 301, 441

mentioned, 155, 156n

in diversionary operations, 159, 160

defects in, 235

leaves Mediterranean, 321

East Africa: see also Italian East Africa, Ethiopia, Sudan, Kenya, etc.

policy for, 26, 114

command in, 31-2, 63

administration of troops in, 60

comparison of forces in, 93-4, 96

early air attacks in, 114

policy behind campaign in, 391-6

East Africa Force: composition of, 180

under General Dickinson, 407

casualties in, June ‘40 to May ‘41, 423

East African Light Battery, 1st: 172, 176, 407

East Indies Station: 32, 82

Eastern Arab Corps, Sudan Defence Force: 168n, 170

Eastern Group Central Provision Office: 186

Edelsten, Captain J. H.: 412

Eden, Rt. Hon. Anthony: greets Dominion contingents, 57

in Middle East, 230, 232, 392-3, 403

his Mission to Greece, 372, 374-89, 395

makes statement on Ethiopian operations, 406

Egypt: see also Egyptian Government

becomes British Protectorate, 1

during Ethiopian crisis, 4

Protectorate abolished, 5

British treaty with, 6-7, 9, 11, 35, 69, 71

joins League, 7

defence of, 10-11, 26, 85, 87, 90, 198, 199-200

reinforcements for, 11-12

makes treaty with Saudi Arabia, 16

communications with Palestine, 19, 64

command in, 31, 32, 63n

situation in, 35-8, 53-4, 89, 121-2, 189

air defence of, 35-7, 213, 232

breaks off diplomatic relations with Germany, 46, 54

administration of troops in, 60

as a base, 63-5

railways in, 63-4

airfields in, 69

no land threat to, 89

troops in, 93, 188

breaks off diplomatic relations with Italy, 121

Italian advance into, 207 et seq

Turkish officers visit, 215

and entry into war, 277

Egyptian Air Force: in air defence of Egypt, 214

Egyptian Army: state of, 10, 37, 93

tasks of, 37

on eve of war 41, 42

Egyptian Government: and Fleet base, 10, 75

co-operation with, 11, 19

signs Bon Voisinage Agreement, 12

proclaims état de siège, [.19], 54

Egyptian Frontier Force: 97

Egyptian State Railways: praised, 54

meet Palestinian, 248n

adaptation to increased traffic, 249

without docks branch, 250

El Adem: air attacks on, 112, 113

Elliott, Rear-Admiral F.: 36

El Wak: raid on, 408

Emperor of Ethiopia, Haile Selassie: flees country, 5

arrives in Sudan, 167, 183

and his entry into Ethiopia, 182, 183-4, 391, 402-6, 424, 428

dissatisfied with equipment, 403

bodyguard for, 404, 405

military co-operation with, 406, 426

enters Burye, 424

enters Debra Markos. 425

accompanied to Addis Ababa, 426

Empire Song, s.s.: 316

Enrico Toti: [.217]

Enterprise, HMS: 156n

Equatorial Corps, Sudan Defence Force: 168n, 397

Equipment: scarcity of, 56, 88, 188-9, 190, 200

Eritrea: see also Frusci

campaign in, 400-2, 432-42

Italian forces in, 430

Eritrean Battalion, 4th: 404

Escort, HMS: sunk, 155

Espero: sunk, 149

Essex, m.v.: bound for Malta, 316, 320

damaged, 322

Essex Regiment, 1st Bn: 169

Ethiopia: see also Emperor, Gazzera, Nasi

Italy invades, 2

Italy annexes, 5

incident closed, 13

fostering rebellion in, 26, 55, 182-4, 189, 391, 402-6, 409

Italian troops in, 93, 166, 430

internal order in, 165, 166, 167

air forces in, 166

administrative situation in, 167

campaign in, 416-22, 424-8, 442-7

Ethiopian Battalion, 2nd: at Khartoum, 404

casualties in, 424

near Addis Derra, 426

Euro: damaged, 150

EXCESS: 307, 309, 311, 316-21, 335

–F–

‘Faith’, ‘Hope’ and ‘Charity’: 98, 119, 120, 121

Far East: fleet for, 28, 30, 39, 126

Farouk, King of Egypt: 6, 35, 121

‘Felix’: [.240], 258

Fezzan: raid into, 296-7

Field Maintenance Centre: 289

Field Supply Depots: in Western Desert offensive, 262-3, 278-80, 288-9, 355

Fighter Command, RAF: 194

Fiona, HMS: 280

First Sea Lord: see Chief of Naval Staff

Flag Officer, North Atlantic: 91

Fleet Air Arm: see also Ark Royal, Eagle, Formidable, Illustrious: patrols of on eve of war, 42

shore provisions for, 62, 78

organization of, 102

in bombardment of Bardia, 163

attacks Bomba, 164

lays mines at Benghazi, 211

and air defence of Alexandria, 214, 262

action of at Taranto, 235-8

in reinforcement of Malta, 243

general activities of, 312

uses Maleme airfield, 335

Squadrons:

No. 767: attacks Genoa, 110

goes to Malta, 120

800: 126

803: 126

806: 201

protects Fleet, 220

808: protects Force H, 311

810: 126

attacks Cagliari, 242

attacks Tirso Dam, 329

813: attacks Tobruk, 150

in action off Calabria, 150

in attack on Taranto, 236-7

in Western Desert, 312

sinks Italian destroyers, 441

814: 412n

815: 201

in attack on Taranto, 236-7

attacks shipping, 310

818: 126

attacks Cagliari, 242

819: 201

attacks shipping, 310

820: 126

attacks Cagliari, 242

824: in action off Calabria, 150, 153

in attack on Taranto, 236-7

sinks Italian destroyers, 441

826: attacks Massawa, 436-7

829: attacks Massawa, 437

830: attacks Augusta, 161

reconnaissances of, 222

attacks Tripoli, 310

attacks shipping, 312, 324

mentioned, 312

Fletcher, Lieut.-Colonel B.C.: 439, 443, 445

Fliegerkorps VIII: 348

Fliegerkorps X: in Sicily, 315, 321

tasks of, 367

responsible to Göring, 369

Flotte de Haute Mer: 28

Foch, Marshal: 51n

Foley, Captain T. M.: 426

Force H: see also Somerville

assembles at Gibraltar, 126

and action at Oran, 131-3, 136

tasks of, 143, 155-6

diversionary operations of, 150, 154-5

losses of, 155, 310

composition of, 156n, 160-1

ordered to U.K., 160

borrows ships from Mediterranean Fleet, 162, 309

in convoy operations, 191, 201-2, 241-2, 300, 310-1, 316-7

and reinforcements for Malta, 243-4

in Atlantic, 311

destroyer shortage in, 313

in bombardment of Genoa, 329-31

Force Maritime du Sud: 28n

Force T: 412-3, 416

Force W: 212n

Force X: see French squadron at Alexandria

Ford, Sir Wilbraham T. R., Vice-Admiral, Malta: 102

and reinforcements, 120

sails convoys, 154

responsible to C.-in-C., Mediterranean, 218

and the damaged Illustrious, 322-3

Foreign Legion, 14th Bn: 436

Foreign Office: 34, 172

Formidable, HMS: for Mediterranean Fleet, 321, 327, 385

aircraft attack Massawa, 436-7

Fort Capuzzo: capture of, 113, 118

loss of, 119, 187

Fortress, bomber aircraft: 70n

Fowkes, Brigadier C. C.: 413, 422

Foxhound, H. M. S.: 132-3, 135

France: collapse of, 122, 125 et seq., [.185]

common citizenship offered to, 124

Francesco Nullo: [.248]

Franco, General: recognized by Germany and Italy, 7

meets Hitler, 226

and entry into war, 240, 347

French Admiralty: order Godfroy to leave Alexandria, 124, 139

and action at Oran, 135

transmit armistice clause, 137

suspend reprisals against Gibraltar, 216

French Air Force in North Africa: in Syria see Syria

replacement of, 56, 95

strength of, 95, 141

attacks Venice, 110

French Army in Tunisia: for forces in Syria see Syria

composition of, 92-3

French Fleet: see also French Mediterranean Fleet

armistice terms relating to, 125, 130

anxiety for after French collapse, 130-1

action against, 131 et seq

French Government: staff talks suggested to, 20

break off diplomatic relations with Britain, 143

French Mediterranean Fleet: see also French squadron

strength of, 91

operations of, 110

fate will affect Turkey, 129

French Minister in Cairo: 141, 189

French Motor Marine Company: 210

French Somaliland: as base for offensive, 26, 55, 127

threat to, 89, 171

reactions to French Armistice in, 123-4, 128, 142

in terms of armistice, 125

affects operations of Aosta, 167-8

French squadron at Alexandria: description of, 84, 91

steams to Alexandria, 109

at time of French collapse, 124, 130, 131, 138-41

restless about Dakar landing, 215-6

French West Africa: reactions to collapse of France, 142

Freyberg, Major-General B. C.: 296

Frontier Battalion, Sudan Defence Force: 168n

formation of, 183

to secure Belaya, 405

in Gideon Force, 406, 424, 426

praise of, 427

Frontier Force Regiment, 12th, 3rd Bn: 438, 446

Frontier Force Rifles, 13th, 6th Bn: 438, 445

Frontier Guards, Italian: 92, 117, 118

Frusci, General: and activity round Kassala, 399

reinforcements for, 429, 432

ordered to organize areas of resistance, 429

forces of, 430

responsible only for Eritrea, 431

and battle of Keren, 439-40

at Amba Alagi, 443, 445

Furious, HMS: 232, 253, 324, 344

–G–

Gabbary graving dock: 75

Galatea, HMS: 47

Galileo Galilei: [.111-2], 114

Gallabat: Italian attack on and capture of, 168, 170, 171, 391

British attack on, 392, 393, 398-9, 429

Italian forces at, 397, 430

Aosta orders evacuation from, 430-1

Italians withdraw from, 401

Gallant, HMS: damaged, 318

Galla-Sidamo: see under Ethiopia

Gambia Company, Royal West African Frontier Force: 180

Gamelin, General: 89

Gariboldi, General: and British Western Desert offensive, 281, 354

replaces Graziani, 368

Rommel submits suggestions to, 369

Gazelle Force: formation of, 397

patrols of, 399

for attack on Kassala, 399

in pursuit from Kassala, 400

in pursuit from Agordat, 401, 432

Gazzera, General: 416, 442

Gedaref: Italian offensive towards, 89

air attacks on, 170

Geneifa: aircraft depot at, 71

General Headquarters, Middle East: promptitude in development of base, 65

take over administrative control of British Somaliland, 172

General Officer Commanding, British Troops in Egypt: 3, 11, 12

now see Wilson

General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Middle East: post created, 32, 33

now see Wavell

General Officer Commanding in Palestine and Transjordan: 14n, 55

Genoa: bombardments of, 110, 328-32

Gensoul, Admiral: at Oran, 130

gives assurance to Admiral North, 131

and action at Oran, 132-3, 135-7, 138

George, King of the Hellenes: 377, 384

Germain, General: 142, 168

German Air Force: see Luftwaffe

German Ambassador in Rome: 65

German Army:

Armies:

12th: 348

Divisions:

3rd Panzer: 257

5th Light Motorized: 367

15th Panzer: 369

German Fleet: losses of, 84

German Military Attaché in Rome: see Rintelen

Germany: see also Hitler

leaves League of Nations, 2

marches into Rhineland, 5

recognizes Franco, 7

as potential enemy, 8, 12, 18, 20, 38, 41, 43

invades Austria, 17

and Pact of Steel, 25, 38

and Soviet-German Non-Aggression Pact, 38, 48, 50

and invasion of Poland, 39, 42, 48

policy for war against, 23, 44

outbreak of war with, 43, 60

economic pressure applied against, 44-7

exports seized, 47

possible intentions of, 48-9, 61, 238-9, 338

invades Norway and Denmark, 82, 85

invades Holland, Belgium and Luxembourg, 88

and French armistice, 122, 125

Rumania allies with, 129

diplomatic activities of, 347-8

Gibraltar: as Fleet base, 9, 10

Governor of, 32, 124

reinforcement of, 83

defences to be manned, 83

naval forces at, 91, 126

bombed by French, 142-3, 215

plan for capture of see ‘Felix’

Gideon Force: birth and tasks of, 406

campaign of, 424-8

has no artillery, 449

Giffard, Major-General G. J., Inspector-General of African Colonial Forces: 179-80

Giulio Cesare: [.153], 302, 329

Gladiator, fighter aircraft: compared with C.R. 42, [.96], 398

slowness of, 113

few reserves for, 272

Glasgow, HMS: 241, 312, 417

Glen ships: 307, 324-6, 344-5

Gloria Stella: [.211]

Glorious, HMS: 47, 98

Gloucester, HMS: arrives in Mediterranean, 84

in engagements with enemy, 149: in action off Calabria, 150-3

mention 156n

in convoy operations, 202, 220, 309, 316-8, 320

damaged, 320

Gnat, HMS: 290

Godfroy, Vice-Admiral R. E.: commands French squadron, 91

reactions to French armistice, 124

mentioned, 130

as friend of Cunningham, 131

and use of his ships, 138-41

and Dakar landing, 215-6

Godwin-Austen, Major-General A. R.: and loss of British Somaliland, 175-8

and raid on El Wak, 408

and advance Harar, 416

makes threat from Yavello, 422

Goebbels, Dr: 142

Gojjam: see under Ethiopia

Gold Coast Regiment: 179

(2nd Bn) 413

Gondar: Italian forces at, 430

Gondar: [.220]

Göring, Marshal: 369

Gorizia: [.237]

Gort, General Lord: 127

Gott, Brigadier W. H. E.: 205

Grampus, HMS: 110, 164n

Graziani, Marshal: discusses Italian naval policy, 145

succeeded in Ethiopia, 165n

commands in Libya, 207

and his advance into Egypt, 207-8

and administrative development, 211, 258

and British Western Desert offensive, 273-4, 281-2, 287-8, 353-4, 357, 363, 368

his instructions commented on, 363

reinforcements for, 367

resignation of, 368

Great Britain: compulsory military training in, 38

Great Pass Channel at Alexandria: 10, 35, 75, 80

Grebe, HMS, R.N. shore establishment: 78

Greece: for President of the Council, see Metaxas, Koryzis

for British air contingent in see Royal Air Force

guarantee to, 25, 31, 52, 223, 229

possible operations of squadrons from, 62, 71

command of forces sent to, 63, 378, 470

reactions to Oran, 142

aid for, 223-4, 231-2, 338-43, 347, 371, 374-81, 382-9

Italian plans for invasion of, 225-6, 233, 234

Italian invasion of, 226, 228

plan for defence of, 227-8

airfields in, 231, 255-6, 340

Mission in, 233

campaign in, 233-4, now see Albania

effect of attack on Taranto on, 238

supplies for, 241, 316-20, 335

German threat to, 334, 375, 377-80, 382, 383, 385-6

talks with, 340-2, 377-80, 382-5

text of agreement signed at talks, 470

German plans for invasion of, 348

Greek Air Force: state of, 227, 234, 336: Longmore’s responsibility for, 255

reforming of, 342

Greek Army: mobilization of, 226-7, 234

dispositions and state of, 227

Griffin, HMS: 318

Guzzoni, General : reports on Libyan situation, 367, 368

told of German assistance, 367

receives Rommel, 369

–H–

Hague Convention of 1907: 47

Haifa: as naval base, 9-10, 27, 79

refinery at, 27, 75, 79

air defence of, 79-80, 213, 214

defences to be manned, 83

air attacks on, 164, 214

Haile Selassie: see Emperor of Ethiopia

Hailu, Ras: 405, 425, 426

Hale, Lieutenant-Commander J. W.: 237

Harar: Italian forces at, 93, 418, 430

advance to, 395-6, 416-9

Hassan Sabry Pasha: 121

Hasty, HMS: 156

HATS: 156n, 161, 162, 191-2, 201-4

Havock, HMS: 156-8

Hawkins, HMS: 412n

Heath, Major-General L. M.: commands 5th Indian Division, 396

in battle of Keren, 437-8

in capture of Massawa, 441

promotion of, 443

Helle: torpedoed, 223

Hereward, HMS: 318, 326

Hermes, HMS: 137

412n

Hermione: sunk, 160

Hero, HMS: 156

Heywood, Major-General T. G. G.: 340

Hickling, Captain H.: 290

Highland Light Infantry, 2nd Bn: 438

Hipper: [.311]

Hitler, Adolf: becomes German Chancellor, 2

annexes Austria, 12

rejects Roosevelt’s appeal, 38

and Italy’s entry into the war, 39

told of numbers in East Africa, 93n

on French Fleet, 130n

and Italian advance into Egypt, 208n

does not want war in Balkans, 225

and Italian invasion of Greece, 226, 240, 337

meets Franco, 226

meets Pétain, 226

meets Mussolini, 81, 130n, 226, 257, 367

and German invasion of Greece, 239-40, 255, 348

plans of, 240, 347

attempts to bring Spain into war, 240

and attack on Russia, 240

and aid to Italy, 257, 315 337, 366-9

Hoare, Sir Samuel: 2n

Hobart, H.M.A.S.: 175, 177, 178

Holland: bombing of, 86

invasion of, 88

Holland, Captain C. S.: 131-3, 135-6

Holland, Vice-Admiral L. E.: 299-300, 304-5

Hood, HMS: in Force H, 126

and action at Oran, 132n, 136

in diversionary operations, 155

in operation HURRY, 160

Hostile, HMS: sunk, 162

Hurricane, fighter aircraft: small number of, 113-4

no spares for, 115

compared with C.R.42, 272

HURRY: 159-60, 194, 243

Hussars, 3rd King’s Own: 190n, 360

Hussars, 7th Queen’s Own: 118-9, 269, 360

Hussars, 8th King’s Royal Irish: 291

Hussars, 11th (Prince Albert’s Own): at Sidi Barrani, 42

in first patrols, 118-9

reconnaissances of, 205, 211, 259

and Italian advance into Egypt, 210

and battle of Sidi Barrani, 269

and pursuit to Bardia, 271

near Chaulan, 356

in battle of Beda Fomm, 357-8

Hutchison, Brigadier (later Major-General) B. O.: 60, 61

Hyperion, HMS: 156-8, 310

–I–

Iachino Admiral: 331

Ibn Saud, King of Saudi Arabia: 16, 88

Ilex: HMS: 156-8

Illalos: 173

Illustrious, HMS: value to Mediterranean Fleet, 155-6, 312

for Mediterranean Fleet, 190-1, 201

operations of her aircraft, 211, 301, 309-10

in convoy operations, 219-20, 222, 242, 300, 309, 317-8

after Italian invasion of Greece, 229

in attack on Taranto, 235-6, 238

in bombardment of Bardia, 286

air attacks on, 319-22

reaches Alexandria, 323

to leave Mediterranean, 327, 437n

India: for Viceroy see Linlithgow

sends forces to the Middle East, 38, 83, 105

air defence of, 49

accumulation of reserves in, 62

warned of request for squadrons, 82

Indian Army: organization of, 105

Indian Government: and defence of oilfields, 15, 62, 129

Inönü, President of the Turkish Republic: Mr. Churchill’s appeal to, 346-7, 466-7

talks with, 381

Inshore Squadron: 212n

formation of, 290

clears Tobruk harbour, 293, 355

Inspector-General, African Colonial Forces: responsibilities of, 31-2

now see Giffard and Dickinson

Intelligence: (British) difficulties of, 188

on Italian forces in North Africa, 206, 258, 265

(Italian) on British forces, 206-7

Iraq: creation of state, 1

terms of Anglo-Iraqi Treaty, 14-15

strategic importance of, 15, 49

makes treaty with Saudi Arabia, 16

independent air command in, 31, 94

land command in, 63, 66

airfields in, 69

unrest in, 88, 122, 187

Iraqi Government: attitude of, 26, 122

Iride: sunk, 164

Isha Baidoa: advance on, 412, 416

Italian Air Force: proximity to Malta, 29

state of, 39, 88

maintenance organization of, 96, 97

compared with RAF, 96-7

first operations of, 113-4

uses torpedo-bomber, 212, 312

(in Libya) strength of, 41, 95, 266

reinforcement of, 96

serviceability in, 96

British information about, 188, 199, 266

in advance into Egypt, 208-9, 211

during British Western Desert offensive, 266, 272, 286, 287-8, 352, 357, 362-3, 368

(in Dodecanese) strength of, 95

reinforcement of, 96

(in East Africa) strength of, 96, 397, 413

reinforcement of, 96, 97, 431-2, 447

maintenance of, 96, 398, 431, 448

in British attack on Gallabat, 398-9

inferiority of, 408

inactivity of, 411, 436, 448

attacks British airfields, 420

losses of, 421, 444, 447

review of activities in campaign from Kenya to Addis Ababa, 422-3

(in Albania) estimated strength of, 234

supremacy of, 336

Italian Army: state of, 38-9, 88

(in Libya or Egypt) composition and state of, 92, 365

dispositions of, 117-8, 265-6

British information about, 118, 188, 206, 258

in advance into Egypt, 208

during British Western Desert offensive, 270, 282, 288, 352

(in East Africa) strength and dispositions of, 93, 397, 411, 416, 430, 442

at Keren, 433

at Amba Alagi, 445

after the campaign, 447

Armies:

5th: 92, 117

10th: composition of, 92

dispositions of, 117

in advance into Egypt, 208, 209

and British Western Desert offensive, 273-4, 281, 287, 352, 354, 361, 368

Corps:

20th: 352

21st: 117, 118

22nd: 117, 288

23rd: 361

Divisions:

Africa, the: 166, 430, 444

Ariete, Armoured: 275, 288, 367, 369

Centauro, Armoured: 227, 233, 275

Savoia, the: 166, 430, 433, 448

Trento, Motorized: 288, 367

1st Blackshirt: 208, 210, 282

1st Colonial: 433

1st Libyan: 117, 210, 265, 269-70

2nd Blackshirt: 282

2nd Colonial: 401

2nd Libyan: 210, 265, 270

3rd Alpini: 233

4th Blackshirt: 208, 265, 270

4th Colonial: 400-1

17th Pavia: 352

27th Brescia: 352

60th Sabratha: 288, 352

61st Sirte: 288, 293

62nd Marmarica: 117, 208, 210, 265, 282

63rd Cirene: 208, 210, 265, 270, 282

64th Catanzaro: 208, 266, 282

101st Colonial: 411, 416

102nd Colonial: 411, 416

Brigades:

12th Colonial: 401

13th Colonial: 420

14th Colonial: 420

41st Colonial: 400, 431

43rd Colonial: 401

70th Colonial: 417

Italian East Africa: see also Eritrea, Ethiopia, Italian Somaliland, and Sea Communications

Italian military policy in, 89,165-6, 168, 448

situation in, 165, 429-32

policy behind campaign in, 391-6

review of campaign in from Kenya to Addis Ababa, 422-3

general review of campaign in, 447

Italian Government: agree on conduct of submarines during neutrality, 44

Italian High Command: birth of, 145

Italian Minister in Athens: 228

Italian Navy: see also Submarines

state of, 39, 88, 163

compared with Allies’, 90-1

policy governing, 145-6, 311

co-operation with air force, 146, 154, 332

in action off Calabria, 151-4

in action off Cape Spada, 156-8

avoids action, 220, 243

in action off Cape Spartivento, 302-6

Italian Somaliland: see also De Simone

forces in, 93

advance into, 411-6

administrative problems of advance, 411-2

Italy: see also Mussolini

effect of First World War on, 1

invades Ethiopia, 2

annexes Ethiopia, 5

need for friendship with, 5, 7, 11, 39

recognizes Franco, 7

signs Anglo-Italian Joint Declaration, 7-8

ceases to be reliable friend, 8, 9, 30

non-provocation of, 8, 41, 45, 54, 81-3, 99, 188

joins Anti-Comintern Pact, 11, 20

leaves League, 11

and Anglo-Italian and Bon Voisinage Agreements, 12, 16, 24, 181, 182

as potential enemy, 20, 41, 43, 61, 67

policy for war against, 23, 25-7, 44, 55-6, 85-7

invades Albania, 24

and Pact of Steel, 25, 38, 39

ability to wage war, 38-40, 88

non-belligerency of, 40, 42-3

negotiations for trade agreement with, 45, 47-8

consulted on Balkan diplomacy, 53

relations with deteriorate, 82, 99

bombing of industrial areas in, 82, 86, 230

estimated intentions of, 83, 88, 89

military policy of, 89, 207

declares war, 109

and French armistice, 122, 123, 125

for the invasion of Greece, see Greece

German aid for, 257, 337, 366-9

central direction of war in, 363

–J–

Jacomoni, Francesco, Governor of Albania: 225

Jaguar, HMS: 317, 321

Japan: invades Manchuria, 2

as potential enemy, 5, 20, 32, 371, 395

Jean Bart: [.130], 137

Jelib: fall of, 415

Jerram, Lieut.-Colonel R. M.: 267

Jibuti: Italian offensive towards, 89, 166

in terms of armistice, 125

Jodl, General: 367

Johnson, Bimbashi T. C.: 426

Joint Intelligence Centre, Middle East: 34, 458-9

Joint Planning Staff, Middle East: 34, 458, 459

Juba, river: Italian forces near, 411, 430

crossing of, 413-5

Viceroy’s orders for defence of, 431

JUNGLE plans: 52, 53, 66

–K–

Kandahar, HMS: 412n, 417

Karora: loss of, 170

Kaso: landing on, 324-6

Kassala: Italian offensive towards, 89, 168

air attacks on, 169

loss of, 170, 171, 391

plans for British attack on, 265, 392, 393-4, 399-400

Italian forces near, 397

importance of, 400

Aosta orders evacuation from, 430

Italians withdraw from, 394, 400

Kennedy Shaw, W. B.: 294-5

Kent, HMS: for Mediterranean Fleet, 156n, 162n

in bombardment of Bardia, 162

and operation HATS, 202

damaged, 212, 312

Kenya: see also Dickinson, Cunningham

reinforcements for, 62, 83, 180, 181

airfields in, 69

no land threat to, 89

troops in, 94, 179-80, 181, 393, 394, 407

air forces in, 96, 180, 407-8, 450

dispositions in, 97

situation in, 179 et seq

defence of, 180, 197

frontier operations in, 180-1

air defence of, 213

transport in, 181-2, 412, 423

administration in, 407

Kenya Auxiliary Air Force: 96

Keren: battle of, 391, 396, 432-40

reinforcements for, 431-2

Keru: action at, 400, 431

Keyes, Admiral of the Fleet Sir Roger: 308

Kimberley, HMS: 178, 248

King’s African Rifles: control of, 31

battalion in British Somaliland, 94, 98

composition of, 180

at Namaraputh, 411

1st Bn: 180

2nd Bn: 172, 176-7, 407

5th Bn: 419

King’s Dragoon Guards, 1st: 357n-8

King’s Own Malta Regiment, The: 98

King’s Royal Rifle Corps, 1st Bn: 118, 210

Kingston, HMS: [.417], 441

Kismayu: proposed capture of, 189, 392, 393-5

capture of, 391, 411-3

as a port, 415-6

Aosta decides not to hold, 431

Koryzis, M. Alexander: on composition of British force, 347, 371, 388

talks with, 377-8, 380, 383

text of statement by, 468-9

Kufra: capture of, 297

Kurmuk: air attacks on, 170

loss of, 170, 171, 391

Italian sortie from, 398

–L–

Ladybird, HMS: bombardments by, 163, 211, 212, 266, 271, 284

lands water, 280

in Inshore Squadron, 290

damaged, 326

Lampson, Sir Miles: 11, 277

Lancaster, bomber aircraft: 70n

Lanciere: [.305-6]

Lastucci, General: 118

League of Nations: 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 11, 14

Leclerc, Colonel: 297

Legentilhomme, General: commands in British Somaliland, 98

his reactions to French armistice, 123-4, 128, 142, 167, 173, 174

Leghorn: air attacks on, 330-1

Le Luc, Admiral: 136

Lend-Lease Bill: 371

Leone: sinks, 441

Liberator, bomber aircraft: 70n

Libya: interrupting supplies to, see Sea Communications

Italian forces in, see Italian Army

Italian policy in, 89, 207

presence of German troops in, 188, 206

Libyan Desert: description of, 294

Liguria: damaged, 150

Linlithgow, Marquess of, Viceroy of India: 186

List, Field-Marshal: 348

Littorio: comes into service, 163

damaged, 237

(class) coming into commission, 90-1, 163

at Taranto, 235

at Genoa, 328-9

Liverpool, HMS: takes Black Watch to Aden, 78, 128

arrives in Mediterranean, 84

in engagements with enemy, 149

and action off Calabria, 150

mentioned, 156n

in convoy operations, 202, 220

damaged, 222, 312

Lloyd, Brigadier W. L.: 268, 434

Lockheed, aircraft: 63

Lomax, Brigadier C. E. N.: 269-70

Longmore, Air Chief Marshal Sir Arthur: see also Commanders-in-Chief

becomes Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, 94-5

Directive to, 460-1

reviews state of forces, 95, 97

places Western Desert under Collishaw, 97

and death of Balbo, 113

switches forces, 114

visits Mittelhauser, 123

and lack of air reconnaissance, 147, 313

on defence of British Somaliland, 172

supports proposal for regional War Council, 185

and Crete, 190

and rearmament and reinforcement, 192-4, 213, 251-5, 346, 376, 387

and Takoradi air route, 197

and Prime Minister’s Directive, 198-9

problems of, 205

and Malta, 217, 218, 324, 344-5

aware of need to attack Benghazi, 218

and aid for Greece, 230, 231, 255, 338-40, 342, 376-7, 387

responsible for Greek Air Force, 255

and squadrons for Turkey, 255, 346

and battle of Sidi Barrani, 261, 272, 275

and mining of the Canal, 327

and attack on Kassala, 393

his steadiness of purpose, 396

and the South African Air Force, 408

Long Range Desert Group: 294-7, 354.

Lord Privy Seal: 191n

Lorenzini, General: 439

Lorraine: [.84]

Loula: sunk, 162

Luftwaffe: see also Fliegerkorps

in Holland, 86

possible intervention of, 114, 251, 252

in Sicily, 288, 315-6

effect of arrival in Middle East, 323-8, 343, 373, 376

first unit of in Middle East, 337

attacks Tobruk and Benghazi, 365

Lugh Ferrandi: advance on, 412

Luxembourg: invasion of, 88

Lysander, army co-operation aircraft: drawbacks of, 193, 264

Lyster, Rear-Admiral A. L. St. G.: 201

–M–

Mackay, Major-General I. G.: and capture of Bardia, 271, 278, 282-4

and capture of Tobruk, 291, 293

and battle of Beda Fomm, 361

Maddalena: capture of fort: 118

Mahratta Light Infantry, 5th, 2nd Bn: 437

3rd Bn: 438

Mai Edega: air attacks on, 436

Malaya, HMS: operates in Indian Ocean, 47

arrives in Mediterranean, 84

wears Commander-in-Chief’s flag, 84

Commanders-in-Chief meet in, 88

in first fleet operation, 109

and action off Calabria, 150, 153

mentioned, 156n

defect in, 160

in operation HATS, 202

in convoy operations, 221, 300, 309-10, 316-7

to reinforce Force H, 309-10

in bombardment of Genoa, 329-30

Maleme airfield: 335

Maletti, General: in advance into Egypt, 116n, 208, 210

in battle of Sidi Barrani, 265, 268

Malta: for Governor see Dobbie, for A.O.C. see Maynard, for Vice-Admiral see Ford

as Fleet base, 9, 10, 29, 30, 74, 76, 77, 98

policy for, 18, 30

strategic importance of, 29

defence and defences of, 29-31, 98, 119-21, 147, 161-2, 198, 217-8

independent air command at, 31, 94

garrison at, 32, 219

airfields in, 29, 69, 70

air establishments at, 70

floating dock at, 75-6, 119

defences to be manned, 83

reinforcements and supplies for, 98, 120, 159-60, 201-3, 219-22, 229-30, 232, 241-4, 254, 299-301, 316-21, 327

possible capture of, 98

‘Faith’, ‘Hope’ and ‘Charity’, 98, 119, 120, 121

air attacks on, 119-21, 218, 310, 322

COSUP in, 120, 219

Shipping Committee in Egypt, 120, 219

as a striking base, 161, 162, 198, 217, 218, 323-4

as a refuelling base, 194

Lieutenant-Governor of, 218

supplies in, 219

Admiral Cunningham visits, 310

squadrons at, Dec. ‘40, 312

Manchester, HMS: 299, 301, 305-6

Mangasha, Dejesmach: 403, 424, 427

Manin: sunk, 441

Mannella, General Pitassi: 288, 293

Manzoni: sunk, 150

Maraventano, Colonel: 425-7

Maria Eugenia: sunk, 211

‘Marita’: [.348-9]

Marriott, Brigadier J. C. O.: 435

Massawa: Italian naval force at, 92, 111-2, 248, 448

force destroyed, 441

air attacks on, 114, 170, 437

reinforcements for, 432

capture of, 391, 396, 441-2

Massiet, General: 89

Matruh garrison: 259, 261, 266, 375

Matruh (Mersa): railway extended to, 4

policy for defence of, 42, 68, 187

as advanced base, 67-8

Italian air attacks on, 113

Maund, Air Vice-Marshal A. C.: 61 71

Mauretania, s.s.: 244n

Maynard, Air Commodore F. H. M., Air Officer Commanding in Malta: 94

forms first fighter defence, 98

and reinforcements, 120

responsible to A.O.C.-in-C., Middle East, 218

Mayne, Brigadier (later Major-General) A. G. O. M.: 397, 443, 445-6

McCarthy, Captain E. D. B.: 221

Mechili: forces at and encounters near, 352-3

Mediterranean: piracy in, 9

areas of responsibility in, 18, 28, 126

Allied co-operation in, 27-8, 43, 91-2, 126

German submarines in, 43

contraband control in, 44-8, 99

French to assume responsibility for, 83, 84

effect of French collapse in 125-6, naval situation in, 163-4

Mediterranean Command, RAF: 31, 94, 107

Mediterranean Fleet: see also Cunningham, Force H, and Submarines

during Ethiopian crisis, 2, 3, 5, 30, 74, 76-7

and its base, 9-10, 29, 30, 31, 36, 74-9

in 1938 crisis, 17, 18, 75

in Albanian crisis, 24, 76

on eve of war, 42, 43, with Italy, 99

reduction of, 47, 77, 299

dock affects composition of, 76

composition of 42, 78, 91, 155-6

ammunition shortage in, 78, 80, 153

plans for removal from Alexandria, 78

reinforcement of, 82, 84, 162n, 190-2, 201-4, 218, 242

destroyer shortage in, 91, 109, 155, 204, 216, 313

organization of, 101-3, 162n

first operation of, 109-10

bombards Bardia, 110, 150, 162-3, 278, 286

suggested withdrawal of, 124

in convoy operations, 148 et seq, 159-60, 191, 201-4, 219-22, 241-3, 299, 306, 309-10, 317-21

in action off Calabria, 150-4

in action off Cape Spada, 156-9

in diversionary operations, 159, 160

lends destroyers to Force H, 162

danger to from air and torpedo-bombing attacks, 163, 191, 212, 312, 373

harasses Graziani’s communications, 211-2

after Italian invasion of Greece, 228-9

sinks Italian convoy, 238

in Western Desert offensive, 261, 266, 271, 278, 280, 284, 286, now see Inshore Squadron

bombards Valona, 310

general shortages in, 373

danger to from mines, 373

Mediterranean Station: 32

Meetings: see Conferences

Mega: capture of, 409

Merchant ships: rules for attack of, 110-1, 147

in Dardanelles, 111

(British) controlled by Admiralty, 42

measures for safety of, 43, 83, 99, 147-8

act as armament ships, 77

French warships ordered to intercept, 142

(French) British policy towards, 143

(German) escape from Mediterranean, 44

(Italian) loss of, 110, 150, 164, 211, 238, 310, 313-4, 324, 335

(others) loss of 111, 160, 162, 314

Mers-el-Kebir: see Oran

Messervy, Brigadier F. W.: 397, 437-8

Metaxas, General: and British help for Greece, 223

and Italian invasion of Greece, 225

given ultimatum, 228

invokes guarantee, 229, 388

withdraws Greek troops from Crete, 232

and placation of Germany, 255

talks with, 339-42

death of, 347

Metemma: attack on postponed, 398

Middle East: see also Middle East base

British interest in, 1

during Ethiopian crisis, 2-5

in 1938 crisis, 17-20

joint command in, 31-4

threat to from north, 49 et seq, 87

defensive outlook in, 54

military policy in, 25-7, 55-6, 85-7, 99, 187

airfields in, 69-70

unready for war, 81-2

countries lack confidence in Allies, 88-9

comparison of forces in, 90-7

reactions to Italy’s entry into war, 121-2

effects of French collapse in, 122-8, 142

proposal for regional War Council in, 185-6

Wavell’s review of, 187-90

air defence in, 213-15

effect on of the arrival of the Luftwaffe, 323-8

Middle East base: importance of Canal to, 39

enlargement and construction of, 60 et seq, 250

security of, 90

Middle East Command RAF: 31, 107

Middle East Intelligence Centre: 34

Milch, Field-Marshal Erhard: 315

Military Government, British: 443, 450

Minister of Aircraft Production: 191n

Minister of Defence: see Prime Minister

Minister of Marine (Italian): 304

Minister of National Defence (Egyptian): 37, 42, 54

Minister of State in the Middle East: 186

Ministerial Committee on the Middle East: 186, 187, 251

Ministry of Marine (French): 27-8

Mission No. 101: enters Ethiopia, 183-4

helped by Royal Air Force, 404

Wingate head of, 406, 424

mentioned, 426

Mitchell, Sir Philip: 406

Mitchell, Air Chief Marshal Sir William: becomes A.O.C.-in-C., M.E., 31

and location of headquarters, 33

war aims of, 41

anxiety over administrative situation, 56, 61

needs communication aircraft, 63

provides facilities for F.A.A., 78

leaves Middle East, 94

Mittelhauser, General: 123, 128

‘Mittelmeer’: 315

Mobile Naval Base Defence Organization: 325

Modun: bombardment of, 416

Mogadishu: capture of, 391, 415-6

advance on, 395, 411, 412

Mogador: damaged, 136

Mohamed Mahmoud Pasha: 35, 54

Mohawk, fighter aircraft: 252, 342

Mohawk, HMS: 238, 318

Mombasa: air defence of, 213

threat to, 392

Mombasa-Cairo route: see Nile Valley route

Montreux Convention: 44, 52-3, 111

Moonstone, HMS: 111

Mosul oilfields: defence of, 90

Motor Machine-Gun Companies, Sudan Defence Force: 169

Nos. 3 and 5, 170

Motor Machine-Gun Group, Sudan Defence Force: No.1, 397

No.2, 401

Motor transport: lack of, 67, 68-9, 71-2

desert-worthiness of, 68-9

in Kenya, 181-2, 412, 423

Moubray, Lieut.-Colonel J.: 209

Mounted Infantry Company, Sudan Defence Force, No. 6: 170

Moyale: loss of, 180-1, 189, 391

recapture of, 409

Mufti of Jerusalem: 17, 88, 122

Munich settlement: 13, 14, 17

Murzuk: raid on, 297

Mussolini, Benito: and Ethiopian war, 2, 20

supports Franco, 7

and Anglo-Italian Joint Declaration, 7

as Protector of Islam, 8

and invasion of Albania, 24

Roosevelt appeals to, 38

and entry into war, 39, 81, 82, 83, 85, 88, 207, 223, 363, 447

decides on neutrality, 40

and contraband control, 45, 47

ends hope of trade agreement, 48

meets Hitler, 81, 130n, 226, 257, 367

on troops in East Africa, 93n

comments on frontier operations, 118n

and Italian naval policy, 145

and Italian East Africa, 165, 168, 430-2, 442, 447

annoyed about French Somaliland, 167

and capture of British Somaliland, 176n

and advance into Egypt, 207-8, 211

and invasion of Greece and Yugoslavia, 225-6, 234, 337, 363

Hitler tells his plans to, 240, 347

and German aid, 257, 315, 368

and British Western Desert offensive, 281, 354

warns against French dissidents, 354

on Italian shortages, 366

and defence of Tripolitania, 369

orders enquiry on raid on El Wak, 408

Myriel, s.s.: 280

–N–

Nagash, Dejesmach: 403, 427

Nahas Pasha: 6

Narval: [.127n], 313

Nasi, Lieut.-General: in capture of British Somaliland, 174

announces Italians to return to Burye, 425

mentioned in connexion with Patriots, 427

ordered to organize areas of resistance, 429

forces under, 430

commands in Amhara and Shoa, 431 442

tasks of, 432

Natal Mounted Rifles, 1st Bn: 409

Natale, Colonel: 424, 425

Neptune, HMS: 84, 149, 150, 156n

Nessim Government: 4

Newcastle, HMS: 244, 299-302, 306

New Zealand: see also New Zealand Government

declares war on Germany and expands defence forces, 57

New Zealand Construction and Maintenance Group N.Z.E.: 249

New Zealand Government: anxious for safety of Dominion convoys, 84

wish to keep contingents intact, 84-5

and fleet for Far East, 126

offers technical units, 249

and the decision to help Greece, 381, 386-7

New Zealand land forces: arrive in Middle East, 57

New Zealand Operating Group N.Z.E.: 249

New Zealand Star, m.v.: 299, 306

Nibeiwa camp: assault on, 266-7

Nicholson, Commander H. St. L.: 156, 158

Nigeria Regiment: 179

Nile Valley route, Mombasa-Cairo: capacity of 62, 67

importance of, 179

description of, 248n

Noguès, General: visited by Wavell, 55

on French Tunisian forces, 93

reactions to French collapse, 122-3, 127-8

Norfolk, HMS: 47

North, Admiral Sir Dudley: 131, 135

North Africa: reactions to French Armistice, 122-3, 127

North Africa Supreme Headquarters, Italian: 92

Northern Prince, m.v.: 316, 323

Northern Rhodesia Regiment, 1st Bn: for British Somaliland, 83

in British Somaliland, 172, 174, 177-8

mentioned, 180

in Kenya, 407

Norway: invasion of, 82, 85

campaign in, 87

Nott, Major D. H.: 426

Nubian, HMS: 238

Nyon Conference: 9

–O–

O’Connor, Major-General (later Lieut.-General) R. N.: commands Western Desert Force, 97

posts covering force, 118

confidence of, 258

and battle of Sidi Barrani, COMPASS, 259, 265, 269, 272

and capture of Bardia, 270, 278, 284

parts with 4th Indian Division, 271

and capture of Benghazi 351, 355-6

and Babini’s armoured brigade, 353

and the battle of Beda Fomm, 356-8, 361

commands in Egypt, 365

Odin, HMS: 110, 164n

Oerlikon guns: 79

Ollive, Vice-Admiral: 28

Onslow, Captain (acting Rear-Admiral) R. F. J.: 137

Operational Centres: formation of, 404

plans for, 405

in campaign of Gideon Force, 424-6

No. 1: 406

No. 2: 406

Oran: in terms of armistice, 125

French ships at, 130

action against French Fleet at, 131-8, possible consequences from, 141, reactions to, 142

Orion, HMS: arrives in Mediterranean, 84: in convoy operations, 148, 149, 202, 219-20, 300, 320-1

in action off Calabria, 150, 153

mentioned, 156n

in encounter with Italian convoy, 238

Orlanger: 111

Orpheus, HMS: 110, 164n

Ostro: [.149]

Oswald, HMS: 164n

Overland route, Basra to Haifa: description of, 15, 16, 18

defence of, 49

improvement of, 62, 66

Owen, Brigadier W.: 411

–P–

Palestine: creation of State, 1

rebellion in, 13-14

conference on, 16-17

policy for, 17, 27

communications with Egypt, 19, 64

industries of, 64

as a base, 64

airfields in, 69, 70, 72

troops in, 93

situation in, 190

Palestine and Transjordan: command in, 31, 32, 63n

administration of troops in, 60

Pandora, HMS: 160

Pantelleria: capture of see WORKSHOP

Pantera: 441

Papagos, General: and Albanian fighting, 333, 336

talks with, 340-1, 378-80, 383-5

has not withdrawn troops, 382

high command under, 470

Papen, von: 129

Parthian, HMS: 110

Patriots, Ethiopian: see also Gideon Force

391

significance of movement, 394

encouraged by British attack on Gallabat, 399

influence of Emperor’s presence on, 403, 404

part of in operations, 403, 425, 427-8

training of, 404

Ras Hailu influences, 405, 425

tasks of, 406

contacts with in Galla-Sidamo, 409

in Begemdir, 426

Cunningham controls operations of, 426

unhelpful near Addis Derra, 426

in pursuit of Maraventano’s force, 427

at Wolchefit Pass, 443

capture Socota, 443

in action at Combolcha, 444

in battle of Amba Alagi, 446

Paul, Prince, Regent of Yugoslavia: 379, 381-2

Penelope, HMS

47

Persia: dissatisfaction in, 88

Persian Gulf: land command of operations near, 63

Perth, H.M.A.S.: 320-2

Pesenti, Lieutenant-General: 409

Pétain, Marshal: 130, 185, 226

Phoenix, HMS, F.A.A. shore establishment: 78

Phoenix, HMS: 151, 164n

Pienaar, Brigadier D. H.: and capture of Kismayu, 413

finds place to cross Juba, 413

enters Addis Ababa, 422

in action at Combolcha, 443-4

and battle of Amba Alagi, 446

Pinna, Air General: 114n, 430

Pitt, Earl of Chatham: Churchill compared with, 200-1

Platt, Major-General (later Lieut.-General) W: plans future operations, 55, 265, 392

and fostering rebellion in Ethiopia, 55, 183, 265, 403-6

and defence of the Sudan, 168, 169, 397

policy of, 171

told of Western Desert offensive, 265, 393

4th Indian Division for, 265, 271, 393

in East African campaign, 391

and attack on Gallabat, 392-3

and attack on Kassala, 399-400

ordered to Asmara, 394, 402

not to go into Ethiopia, 395

reorganizes 5th Indian Division, 397

and campaign of Gideon Force, 424-6

and

Platt, Major-General W.—cont.

capture of Massawa, 441

and the battle of Keren, 395, 402, 433, 435, 437-40

and the battle of Amba Alagi, 396, 443

Duke of Aosta surrenders to, 446

Plumleaf, oiler: 202

Poland: guarantees to, 23, 38

Non-Aggression Pact with, 38

and Treaty with U.K., 38

invasion of, 39, 42, 48

Polish Brigade: 375, 404

Polish Government: 381

Porro, Air General: 208

Portal, Air Chief Marshal Sir Charles: 251

Port Said: use of, 64

oil at, 74

naval facilities at, 79

clearance facilities at, 250

Port Sudan: sole useful port, 168

air attacks on, 170

air defence of, 213

Ports and Lights, Egyptian: 75, 80

Pound, Admiral Sir Dudley: 18, 24, 28n, 75 now see Chief of Naval Staff

Prasca, General Visconti: 225-6, 234, 337

Prendergast, Captain G. L.: 294

Pretty, Captain F. C.: 203

Pricolo, General Francesco: 145, 315

Pridham-Wippell, Vice-Admiral H. D.: in engagement with enemy, 238

in convoy operations, 300, 309, 317, 320

cannot locate Illustrious, 323

Prime Minister (Rt. Hon. Neville Chamberlain): 8, 38

Prime Minister and Minister of Defence (Rt. Hon. Winston S. Churchill): becomes Prime Minister, 88

on Admiral Cunningham’s objects, 98

and action against French Fleet, 137

sets up Committee for Middle East, 186

invites Wavell home, 187

and reinforcements for Middle East, 190-1, 374

presides over Defence Committee, 191n

sends Directive to Wavell, 197

compared with Pitt, 200-1

and operation HATS, 204

and Malta, 219

and Italian invasion of Greece, 228

comments on despatch of squadron to Greece, 230

and offensive in Western Desert, COMPASS, 230, 253, 275, 277

and support for Turkey, 239

and WORKSHOP, 308-9, 325

on the arrival of the Luftwaffe in the Mediterranean, 323

and aid to Greece, 229, 338-9, 372, 377, 380-1, 386, 388

appeals to Turkish President, 346-7, 466-7

dissatisfied with troops in Kenya, 393

hopes for victory in Ethiopia, 394

appealed to by Emperor of Ethiopia, 405

Prisoners: in patrols, 118-9, 187, 264

in naval actions, 149, 158, 220, 222

in battle of Sidi Barrani, 268, 271, 273

in capture of Bardia, 284, 287

in capture of Tobruk, 293

in battle of Beda Fomm, 358, 360, 361

in whole Western Desert campaign, 362

in action at Keru, 400

in raid on El Wak, 408

in capture of Mega, 409

in capture of Bulo Erillo, 413

at Harar, 419

in Italian evacuation of Burye, 424

from surrender of Maraventano’s force, 427

captured by Gideon Force, 427

in battle of Keren, 439

in capture of Asmara, 441

in capture of Massawa, 442

in action at Combolcha, 444

in surrender at Amba Alagi, 446

Protector, HMS: 164, 229

Proteus, HMS: 160

Provence: [.136]

Punjab Regiment:

1st, 3rd Bn: 268, 433n

2nd, 1st Bn: 172, 177

2nd, 3rd Bn: 438, 445

14th, 3rd Bn: 433n

15th, 3rd Bn: 172, 173, 176

–Q–

Queen Elizabeth, s.s.: 244n

Queen Elizabeth class: 76, 155

Queen Mary, s.s.: 244n

–R–

Radar: absence of in Mediterranean Fleet, 155, 320

in Ajax, 192, 222

in operation HATS, 202

scarcity of sets, 213

in Illustrious, 312

during passage of convoy EXCESS, 317, 318

in Bonaventure, 321

in bombardment of Genoa, 330

Raeder, Admiral: 366

Railway Construction and Operating Company, 10th R.E.: 249

Rainbow, HMS: 217

Rajputana Rifles, 6th:

1st Bn: 267-8, 433n

4th Bn: 268, 435

Ramillies, HMS: arrives in Mediterranean, 84

mentioned, 156n

in convoy operations, 221, 242

leaves Mediterranean, 299-302, 306

in action off Cape Spartivento, 304

Rankin, Lieut.-Colonel W.: 443-4, 446

Rawlings, Rear-Admiral H. B.: 320

Rear-Admiral, First Battle Squadron: 309, 323

Rear-Admiral Mediterranean Aircraft Carriers: see Lyster

Red Sea: see also Sea Communications and Red Sea Force

vulnerability of and dangers to, 4, 39, 75

Italian naval force in, see Massawa

convoys in, 112, 193, 248-9

as ‘Combat Zone’, 244

rendering safe of, 395

no longer ‘Combat Zone’, 396, 442

Red Sea Force: description of, 84

only provides essential escorts, 92

conditions in, 249

Rees, Brigadier T, W.: 439

Regulus, HMS: 313

Reinforcements: see under heading of their destination, e.g. Royal Air Force, Kenya, etc.

Renouf, Rear-Admiral E. de F.: 316-8, 320

Renown, HMS: in Force H, 156n

in convoy operations, 201, 300, 310, 316-7

operates in Atlantic, 242

rejoins Force H, 243

in action off Cape Spartivento, 301-5

damaged, 311

under repair, 316

in bombardment of Genoa, 328-30

Renton, Lieut.-Colonel J. M. L.: 358

Reserve M.T. Company, New Zealand A.S.C., 4th: 268, 280

Reserve, strategic, in Middle East: for use in Balkans, 51

ordered to be formed, 328, 344

50th Division for, 374

mentioned, 389

Resolution, HMS: at action at Oran, 132n

in diversionary operation, 155

mentioned, 156n

in operation HURRY, 160

Resource, HMS: 75, 78

Rhodes: air attacks on, 203

Luftwaffe established at, 326

importance of capturing, 343, 344-5, 375

air threat from, 373

Ribbentrop, von: 81, 226

Riccardi, Admiral: 337

Richards, Brigadier C. E. M.: 413

Richelieu: [.130], 137

Richpal Ram, Subedar: 435

Richthofen, General Frh. von: 348

Rifle Brigade, 2nd Bn: in battle of Sidi Barrani, 266, 270

in battle of Beda Fomm, 358, 361

Ringrose, Major B. J.: 443

Rintelen, Major-General Enno von: reports on situation in Libya, 207, 209, 366, 368

reports on Italian invasion of Greece, 226, 337

on notification of British attack, 274

Guzzoni reports to, 367

Ritchie, Brigadier A. McD.: 411

Roatta, General: 369

Robertson, Brigadier H. C. H.: 286, 293

Rolle, Colonel: 398

Rome-Berlin Axis: 7

Rommel, Lieut.-General Erwin: 369, 396

Roosevelt, President: appeals to Axis dictators, 38

declares Red Sea a Combat Zone, 244

announces end of Red Sea Combat Zone, 396, 442

Rorqual, HMS: 164

Royal Air Force in Middle East: during Ethiopian crisis, 3, 4-5

rearmament and reinforcement of, 12, 18-19, 41, 61, 62, 71-3, 83, 95, 129, 186, 192-7, 232, 246, 250-5, 346, 373-4

in 1938 crisis, 17

command in, 31

on eve of war, 41

policy for expansion of and administrative consequences, 62-3, 71-3

airfields for, 69-70, 72

aircraft depots for, 70-1

vehicles shortage in, 71-2

reserves in, 72

inadequacy of, 81

strength and state of, 95, 188

tasks of, 95, 112

at Aden, 96, 114, 178, 450

in the Sudan, 96, 114, 169, 254, 397, 398, 450

in Kenya, 96, 180, 407, 450

in the Western Desert, 97, 112-3, 114, 205-6, 209, 210-11, 261

now see below in Western Desert offensive

organization of, 107-8

attacks Tobruk, 164, 261

in bombardments of Bardia, 113, 162-3

attacks enemy troops concentrations, 113

attacks Derna, 164, 261

attacks Bomba, 164

in loss of British Somaliland, 177-8

attacks Benina, 211

effect of loss of Sidi Barrani on, 212

and air defence of Alexandria, 214

attacks Taranto, 237

attacks Benghazi, 261

attacks Bardia, 261

and the Long Range Desert Group, 296

general activities of against Italian ports, 312

sets up Cyrenaican H.Q., 365

(in East African campaign) 391

in attack on Gallabat, 398

during Italian retreat from Um Hagar, 401

general activity during Italian withdrawals from Sudan frontier, 402

helps 101 Mission, 404

attacks Italian airfields, etc., 417, 420, 436

in battle of Keren, 437-8

in capture of Massawa, 441-2

in battle of Amba Alagi, 443

(in Greece) arrival of, 230, 233

increases in and strength of, 231, 255, 336, 344, 376

policy of, 234-5, 336

operations and losses of, 253, 334, 336

(in Western Desert offensive) casualties in, 253, 272

plan for, 261

strength of, 261-2, 288

strikes at airfields, 266, 353

in battle of Sidi Barrani, 272

and capture of Bardia, 253, 278, 284, 286

maintenance of, 281, 352-3

and capture of Tobruk, 291, 293

during Italian withdrawal, 357

Groups:

No. 201: 99

202: ready for war, 100

damages San Giorgio, 110

commands air forces in Western Desert, 112

aircraft attack enemy airfields, 204

and battle of Sidi Barrani, 262

H.Q. at Sollum, 288

H.Q. withdrawn, 365

203: 169, 397, 420

Wings:

No. 252: 154, 214

No. 254: 169

Squadrons:

No. 6: 264n, 365

8: attacks airfield near Assab, 114

in loss of British Somaliland, 178

attacks Diredawa airfields, 417

for mopping-up operations, 450

11: for Aden, 114

in loss of British Somaliland, 178

in battle of Sidi Barrani, 261, 262n

for Greece, 344

14: attacks Massawa, 114

mentioned, 169

in battle of Keren, 437

sinks Italian destroyers, 441

for Egypt, 450

30: conversion of, 114

for Greece, 230, 231

begins operations, 233

33: in capture of Fort Capuzzo, 113

escort duties of, 113, 150

rearmed, 251

in battle of Sidi Barrani, 262n

covers forward area, 280

and capture of Bardia, 286

for Greece, 336

37: for Middle East, 232

in battle of Sidi Barrani, 262n

and capture of Tobruk, 291

attacks Albanian airfields, 336

38: for Middle East, 232

in battle of Sidi Barrani, 262n, and capture of Tobruk, 291

39: attacks Diredawa, 114

in loss of British Somaliland, 178

in battle of Sidi Barrani, 261, 262n

45: attacks El Adem, 112

attacks Tobruk, 112

goes to Sudan, 114, 169, 397

in battle of Sidi Barrani, 261, 262n

withdrawn, 365

47: in the Sudan, 169

in battle of Keren, 437

in capture of Massawa, 442

and battle of Amba Alagi, 443

for mopping- up operations, 450

55: attacks El Adem, 112

attacks Tobruk, 159

and Italian advance into Egypt, 209

attacks Bardia, 253

in battle of Sidi Barrani, 262n

and capture of Tobruk, 293

in Cyrenaica command, 365

69: 312

70: operations of in Greece, 233

rearmed, 251

in battle of Sidi Barrani, 262n

and capture of Bardia, 284

during Italian withdrawal, 357

73: for Middle East, 232

in battle of Sidi Barrani, 262

covers forward area, 280

and capture of Bardia, 286

and capture of Tobruk, 293

at Gazala, 353

defends Tobruk, 365

80: 233, 336

84: 178, 199, 233

94: in Red Sea, 114

in loss of British Somaliland, 177

reinforces South African Air Force, 420

for Egypt, 450

112: 169, 262n, 344

113: attacks El Adem, 112

attacks Tobruk, 112

reconnaissances of, 113

and Italian advance into Egypt, 209

rearmed, 251

in battle of Sidi Barrani, 262n

in capture of Tobruk, 293

withdrawn, 365

148: operations of against Italian ports, 312

attacks Catania, 321

203: in loss of British Somaliland, 178

attacks targets in Ethiopia, 420

for Egypt, 450

208: reconnaissances of, 113

in Army/Air Component, 264n

to co-operate with 7th Armoured Division, 357

211: attacks Tobruk, 112, 150, 159

in capture of Fort Capuzzo 113

and Italian advance into Egypt, 209

in Greece, 233

216: attacks El Adem, 113

attacks Tobruk, 113, 206

many calls on, 218

takes air party to Greece, 233

in battle of Sidi Barrani, 262n

and capture of Bardia, 284

helps Long Range Desert Group, 296

223: in the Sudan, 169

goes to Aden, 178

attacks Mai Edega, 436

in battle of Keren, 437

destroys Italian ships, 441

in capture of Massawa, 442

for Egypt, 450

228: reconnaissances of, 149, 151, 324

and attack on Taranto, 236

mentioned, 312

230: sinks submarines, 149

237 Rhodesian: in Kenya, 180

in the Sudan, 397, 407

in battle of Keren, 437

and battle of Amba Alagi, 443

for Egypt, 450

261: 312

274: in battle of Sidi Barrani, 261-2

covers forward area, 280

and capture of Bardia, 286

and capture of Tobruk, 293

at Gazala, 353

withdrawn, 365

Flights:

K: 169, 261

430: 169, 404

431: 236, 312

Other Units:

Anti-Aircraft Co-operation Unit: 195

Flying Training School, No. 4: 199

Kenya Auxiliary Air Unit: 180

Royal Artillery:

Hong Kong and Singapore Brigade, 23rd Battery: 173

1st Field Regiment, 269

25th Field Regiment, 268

31st Field Regiment, 269

7th Medium Regiment, 269

31st Field Battery, 267-8

25/26th Medium Battery, 210

212th Medium Battery, 437

233rd Medium Battery, 437

22nd Mountain Battery, 180, 419

Royal Australian Air Force, No. 3 Squadron: in Army/Air Component, 264n, 272

and capture of Tobruk, 293

defends Benghazi, 365

Royal Fusiliers, 1st Bn: 268, 435n

Royal Garhwal Rifles, 18th, 3rd Bn: 438, 445

Royal Horse Artillery: 97

3rd Regiment, 293

106th Regiment, 358, 361

C Battery, 209-10, 358, 361

F Battery, 209-10, 360

J Battery, 119

Royal Natal Carbineers, 1st Bn: 415, 444

Royal Navy: see also Mediterranean Fleet

command in Middle East, 32-3

in Norwegian campaign, 82, 84, 87

Royal Northumberland Fusiliers, 1st Bn: 210, 283

Royal Sovereign, HMS: arrives in Mediterranean, 84

endurance of 102-3

and action off Calabria, 150-1n, 153

in convoy operations, 154

(class) 76, 102-3, 109

anxiety to C.-in-C., 155

Royal Tank Regiment:

1st Bn, 360

2nd Bn, for Middle East, 190n

in battle of Sidi Barrani, 270

in battle of Beda Fomm, 359-60

4th Bn, to join 4th Indian Division, 400

in battle of Keren, 439n

in capture of Massawa, 442

6th Bn, in battle of Sidi Barrani, 270

withdrawn, 291

in attack on Gallabat, 398

7th Bn, for Middle East, 190n

in battle of Sidi Barrani, 259-60, 267-9

in capture of Bardia, 271, 283

in capture of Tobruk, 291

Royal West African Frontier Force: control of, 32

brigades for Kenya, 62, 83

description of, 179

Royal Wiltshire Yeomanry: 214

Rubino: [.149]

Rumania: guarantee to, 25, 31, 52, renounced, 129

threat to, 48, 49

loses provinces to Russia, 129

relations with Germany and Italy, 129, 225, 238

British threat to oilfields in, 255, 343, 346, 348

German concentration in, 338, 339, 340-1, 348, 388

Russell, Colonel D.: 446

Russell, Brigadier H.: 270

Russia: and Soviet-German Non-Aggression Pact, 38, 48, 50

possible action by, 48-9, 61, 90

annexes Bessarabia and Northern Bukovina, 129

German attack on see ‘Barbarossa’

interested in German move towards Greece, 348

–S–

Salonika: French project for force at, 50-1, 86-7, 90

defence of 378-9, 383-4

Sandford, Colonel (later Brigadier) D. A.: fosters rebellion in Ethiopia, 182-4, 391, 402-5

as Emperor’s adviser, 406, 426

San Giorgio: set on fire, 110, 113

in Tobruk, 291

wrecked, 293

Sappers and Miners, 5th Indian Division: 439

Saudi Arabia: strategical importance of 16

sympathies in, 88

Sauro: sunk, 441

Savige, Brigadier S. G.: 282

Savoia 79 (S.79), Italian bomber: compared with Blenheims, 96

Savoia 81 (S.81), Italian bomber: 3

Savoia Grenadier Regiment, 11th Bn: for Keren, 431: at Keren, 433, 440, 448

Savory, Brigadier R. A.: 267, 433

Scheer: [.242], 299

Scots Guards, 2nd Bn: 296

Sea Communications: between Italy and Libya, 25, 26, 28, 30, 92, 98, 99, 146-7, 164, 215, 216-7, 316, 324

in Gulf of Aden and Red Sea, 26, 90

between Italy and East Africa, 82, 85

in Eastern Mediterranean, 98

in Aegean, 98, 111, 147

between Italy and Dodecanese, 98

between Italy and Albania, 312, 316

Selby, Brigadier A. R.: 266, 269-70

Senior British Naval Officer, Canal Area: 37

Serenitas: sunk, 150

Seyoum, Ras: 443

Sheffield, HMS: in Force H, 156n

in convoy operations, 201, 300-1, 316-7

in bombardment of Genoa, 329-30

Shropshire, HMS: 412n

Sidi Barrani: Italian air attacks on, 113: Italians capture, 210

effect of capture, 212

battle of, COMPASS, 260-75

Sierra Leone Battalion, Royal West African Frontier Force: 180

Sikh Regiment, 11th, 4th Bn: 435

Simonds, Major A. C.: 424-5

Skinner’s Horse, Sudan Defence Force: 397, 437

Slatter, Air Commodore L. H.: commands 203 Group, 169

strength of his forces, 397

his targets, 398

and plan to attack Kassala, 399

Slim, Brigadier W. J.: 397, 399

Smallwood, Brigadier G. R.: 416

Smuts, General, Prime Minister of South Africa: and forces for Middle East, 57, 197, 394

anxious about defence of Kenya, 199, 394

and aid for Greece, 387

at Khartoum Conference, 392

Socota: capture of, 443

Soddu, General: 234, 337

Sollum: capture of 280

Somaliland Camel Corps: 94

reinforcements for, 172

in loss of British Somaliland, 173-4, 178

Somerville, Vice-Admiral Sir James: commands Force H, 131

and action against French Fleet, 131-3, 135-8

and diversionary operations, 155

on role of Force H, 156

and reinforcements for Malta, 159-60, 243

and convoy operations, 201-2, 242, 300-1, 316-7

and action off Cape Spartivento, 301-7

ordered to Azores, 310

and bombardment of Genoa, 328-9, 332

‘Sonnenblume’: 368

Sortie: explanation of, 211n

South Africa: declares war on Germany and position of armed forces, 57

South African Air Force: squadrons offered to Kenya, 58

aircraft for, 195, 252

expansion of in East Africa, 252

(in East African campaign) 391

in raid on El Wak, 408

attacks Italian airfields, 411, 417, 421

and the capture of Kismayu, 412-3, 415

moves to Mogadishu, 417

and advance to Harar, 418

reinforcements for, 420

losses of, 422

review of in campaign from Kenya to Addis Ababa, 423

(in Kenya) begins to arrive, 96

strength of, 180, 407, 450

control of, 408

tasks of, 408

(in the Sudan) strength of, 169

Wings:

No. 2: 412, 417

Squadrons:

No. 1: 169

2: 407, 450

3: in Kenya, 407

attacks Italian airfields, 413, 421

at Dagabur, 417

in ‘close support flight’, 420

for mopping-up operations, 450

11: in Kenya, 180, 407

attacks Italian airfields, 411, 413, 421

for mopping-up operations, 450

12: in Kenya, 180, 407

attacks Italian airfields, 411, 413, 421

for Egypt, 450

24: 450

40: in Kenya, 180, 407

for mopping-up operations, 450

41: in Kenya, 407

helps 11th African Division, 417

in ‘close support flight’, 420

for mopping-up operations, 450

South African Artillery: 1st Anti-Aircraft Brigade, 180, 247

4th Field Brigade, 443

7th Field Brigade, 419

1st Medium Brigade, 443-4

South African Engineers: 412

South African Government: see also Smuts

agree to send forces to Middle East, 83

its interest in and help for Kenya, 181, 412, 423

and control of South African squadrons, 408

South African land forces: offered to Kenya, 57, 180

South African Light Tank Company, 1st: 408

South African Road Construction and Maintenance Companies: 415

Southampton, HMS: in convoy operations, 299, 305-6, 316-8

loss of, 320

Southern Rhodesia Regiment: 172

Sowrey, Air Commodore W.: 408, 412

Spahis: 401

Spain: see also Franco

adopts non-belligerency, 126

attempts to bring into war, 240

Spanish Civil War: 7, 8, 13

Squadra 5th: in advance into Egypt, 208-9

notified of impending attack, 274

strength of, 288

mastered, 362

Staff Conversations: see Conferences

Strasbourg: 91

at Oran, 130

and action at Oran, 132, 136-7, 142

Stuart, H.M.A.S.: 47

and action off Calabria, 150

in encounter with submarine, 220

Submarines:

(British) numbers of, 91

organization of, 102

operations and losses of, 110, 164, 216-7, 313-4

‘T’ class, 217

‘U’ class 314, 324

(French) numbers of 91, 92

control of 110

(German) in Mediterranean, 43

(Greek) patrol Adriatic, 313, 335

(Italian) agreement concerning during Italy’s neutrality, 44

numbers of, 91

losses of, 110, 111-2, 148-9, 164, 220, 314

operations of, 111, 314

Suda Bay: as fleet fuelling base, 99, 110, 228-30

air attacks on, 229

limitations of, 335

Sudan: see also Platt

command in, 31, 32, 63n

policy for operations in, 55

administration of troops in, 60

airfields in, 69, 70, 72

no land threat to, 89

troops in, 94, 397

dispositions in, 97, 169

possible invasion of, 168

frontier operations in, 170-1, 189, 398

reinforcements for, (see also 4th and 5th Indian Divisions), 171, 396-7

defence of, 197

air defence of, 213

Italian withdrawals from frontier, 399-402

(air forces in) strength of, 96, 114, 169, 254, 397, 450

tasks of, 169, 398

reduction in, 261, 450

Sudan Defence Force: additional battalion for, 62

mentioned, 94

description of, 168-9

patrols of, 170, 171, 397

in loss of Kassala, 170

pursues Italians, 401

and battle of Keren, 437

at Wolchefit Pass, 443

Sudan Horse: 169

Sudan Police: 397

Suez Canal: British interest in, 1

and Constantinople Convention, 2, 3n, 12, 37, 46

dangers to, 4, 37, 75, 99, 324

defence of, 37, 49

importance of, 39

lights extinguished, 100

air attacks on, 164

mining of, 250, 326-8, 385, 387

Suez, port of: 64, 65, 250, 327

Suffolk, HMS: 47

Support Group (7th Armoured Division): on eve of war with Italy, 97

description of, 105

part of covering force, 118

takes over front, 205, 259

withdrawn, 211

patrols of 264

in battle of Sidi Barrani, 269-70

and capture of Bardia, 278, 286-7

and capture of Tobruk, 287, 291

mentioned, 357n

attacks Sceleidima fort, 359

Sydney, H.M.A.S.: arrives in Mediterranean, 84

in engagements with enemy, 149

and action off Calabria, 150

mentioned, 156n

in action off Cape Spada, 156-8

in operation HATS, 202

in convoy operations, 219-20

in encounter with Italian convoy, 238

takes unit to Crete, 242

Syria: creation of State, 1

strategic importance of, 26

troops in, 27n, 93

air forces in, 95

reactions to French armistice in, 123, 124, 128

British announcement on, 128

–T–

Tactical Air Forces: 264

Takoradi air route: development of, 126, 195-7

defence of, 193, 296

length of sea passage to, 194

aircraft deliveries to by carrier, 195, 232, 253, 324, 344

Tedder reports on, 254

Tanks: see also 7th Armoured Division

(light) description of, 105

(medium or cruiser) description of, 105

(‘I’) description of, 105

for Middle East, 191

(Italian M.13) used by British, 364n

Taranto: Fleet Air Arm’s action at, 235-8, 242-3

Tedder, Air Marshal A. W.: 254

Tellera, General : 287, 354, 361

Terror, HMS: bombardments by, 266, 271, 278, 284, 291

lands water, 280

in Inshore Squadron, 290

Thesiger, Bimbashi W.: 426

Thoma, General von: 257, 366

Thorold, Group Captain H. K.: 197, 254

Tigre: 441

Tirso Dam: attack on, 329

Tobruk: British air attacks on, 112-3, 150, 159, 164, 206, 209, 261

capture of, 281, 287-93

enemy air attacks on, 365

Tomahawk, fighter aircraft: little known of, 42

Torelli, Colonel: 424-5

Tovey, Vice-Admiral J. C.: commands contraband control operations, 46

in convoy operations, 148, 149

in action off Calabria, 150, 153

becomes Vice-Admiral, Light Forces, 162n

commands Home Fleet, 238n

Transjordan: creation of State, 1

strategic importance of, 15-16

Transjordan Frontier Force: 16

Transvaal Scottish, 1st Bn: 415, 419, 444

Treaties, etc.: Anglo-Egyptian, 6-7, 9, 11, 35, 69, 71

Anglo-Italian Joint Declaration (the Gentlemen’s Agreement), 7-8

Anti-Comintern Pact, 11, 20

Anglo- Italian Agreement, 12, 16, 24, 47

Bon Voisinage Agreement, 12, 181, 182

Anglo-Iraq, 14-15

Treaties of Saudi Arabia, 16

between Britain and Yemen, 16

Pact of Steel, 25, 38, 39

Anglo-Turkish Joint Declaration, 25, 26, 31, 50

Balkan Entente, 25, 49, 50

German naval agreement with Great Britain, 38

Non-Aggression Pact with Poland, 38

Soviet-German Non-Aggression Pact, 38, 48, 50

Anglo-Polish Treaty, 38

Anglo-French-Turkish Treaty of Mutual Assistance, 50, 51-2, 60, 122, 129

Tripartite Pact, 347

Trento: [.237]

Triad, HMS: 217

Tribal class destroyers: 217

Tripoli: air attacks on, 301, 316

possible advance to, 371-2

Tripolitania: French offensive into, 26, 55, 56, 85

Italian defence of, 368, 369

Triton, HMS: 313

Tummar West camp: assault on, 268

Turkey: effect of First World War on, 1

Joint Declaration with, 25, 26, 31, 50

strategic importance of, 25, 49-50, 87, 239

Treaty with, 50, 51-2, 60, 122, 129

British support for, 51, 53, 81, 239, 256, 372, 375, 376-7

war material for, 50, 52, 90, 122, 256, 345-6, 382

administrative development in, 52, 62, 67, 256, 345

refuse British passage through Straits, 53

talks with, 53, 85, 89-90, 122, 256, 345-6, 381-2

possible air force units for, 61, 62, 71, 87, 95, 255

command of forces sent to, 63

French support for, 87, 90

and merchant ships in Dardanelles, 111

reaction to Italy’s entry into war, 122

and British announcement on Syria, 128

reactions to French collapse, 128-9

reactions to Oran, 142

officers from visit Egypt, 215

and invasion of Greece, 224

encouraged by attack on Taranto, 238

appeal to President of, 346-7, 466-7

Turkish Chief of Staff: 50

Turkish Foreign Minister: 51

Turle, Rear-Admiral C. E.: 233, 340

–U–

Uebi Scebeli: [.148-9]

Um Hagar: Italian forces at, 397

Italians withdraw from, 401

Unique, HMS: 324

United States of America: see also Roosevelt

reactions to Oran, 142

and decision to aid Greece, 389

Upholder, HMS: 324

Upright, HMS: 324

Usk, HMS: 324

Utmost, HMS: 324

–V–

Valiant, HMS: at action at Oran, 132n

in diversionary operations, 155

Admiral Cunningham asks for, 155

in operation HURRY, 160

for Mediterranean Fleet, 190-1, 201, 203

in convoy operations, 219, 221, 300, 309, 317-8, 320

bombards Bardia, 286

value of, 299

Valona: capacity of, 234

air attacks on, 234, 334

bombardment of, 310

offensive against, 336-7

Vampire, H.M.A.S.: 47

Vega: sunk, 318

Ven, Rear-Admiral: 110

Vendetta, H.M.A.S.: 47

Via Imperiale: [.400]

Vice-Admiral, Destroyers: see Tovey

Vice-Admiral Light Forces: term explained, 102

now see Tovey, Pridham-Wippell

Vice-Admiral, Malta: see Ford

Vichy Government: (at Bordeaux) 122, 123 (at Vichy) naval forces under, 141

possibility of war with, 215-6

Victor Emmanuel, King of Italy: 24, 118n, 165n

Victoria Cross: awards of, 177, 402, 435

Vienna Award, Second: 225

Vietina, Admiral: 293

Vittorio Veneto: comes into service, 163

attacked at Taranto, 237

in action off Cape Spartivento, 302, 304, 306

Volo, s.s.: 202

Volpini, General: 446

Voyager, H.M.A.S.: 47

–W–

Wafdist Party : 4, 6, 35, 53, 54

Waller, Captain H. M. L., R.A.N.: 290

War Cabinet: see also Cabinet and Defence Committee

relations with Chiefs of Staff, 33n

orders seizure of German exports, 47

and Salonika project, 51

policy for Middle East land and air forces, 61-3, 71, 73

agrees to precautionary measures, 83

offers common citizenship to France, 124

recognizes de Gaulle, 128

and policy towards French forces, 128

and French Fleet, 130-1, 135, 137-8

and Emperor of Ethiopia, 183

and proposal for regional War Council, 185-6

and destination of 5th Indian Division, 187

its relations with Defence Committee, 191n

and reinforcements for Middle East, 192

and help for Greece, 231, 233, 343, 375, 377, 381, 386-7, 395

and support for Turkey, 239, 256

instructions of, 343-4

War Office: General Wavell reports to, 52, 55, 228, 393, 394

administrative responsibilities of, 60

and defence of British Somaliland, 172

and reinforcements for Middle East, 190, 251, 374

and the Long Range Desert Group, 296

Warspite, HMS: Cs.-in-C. meet in, 34

returns to U.K., 47

visits Istanbul, 50

wears Commander-in-Chief’s flag, 84

modernized, 91, 103

in first Fleet operation, 109

mentioned, 140, 156n

in action off Calabria, 150-3

in convoy operations, 202, 219, 221, 300, 309-10, 317-8, 320

after Italian invasion of Greece, 229

bombards Bardia, 286

value of, 299

Waterhen, H.M.A.S.: 47

Wavell, General Sir Archibald: see also Commanders-in-Chief

becomes G.O.C.-in-C., Middle East, 32

Directive to, 457-9

and location of headquarters, 33

and material for Turkey, 52

goes to U.K, 52, 61, 176, 187-92, 194

and defensive outlook in Middle East, 54

asks for policy for conduct of war, 55

visits Noguès, 55

Army Council instructions to, 59

and administration, 60

becomes Commander-in-Chief, Middle East, 63

anxious about overland route, 66

points out war preparations incomplete, 81

forces of, 93, 94

policy of, 97

visits Mittelhauser, 123

fears disintegration in Syria, 128

and Legentilhomme, 128

and destination of 5th Indian Division, 171, 187, 189, 198, 199

and British Somaliland, 172, 175, 178-9, 199

and Kenya, 180, 199, 392

and fostering rebellion in Ethiopia, 182-4, 189, 393, 403-4, 406

proposes regional War Council, 185-6

gives review to Chiefs of Staff, 187-90, 205

and reinforcements, 191-2, 199, 374

and Prime Minister’s Directive, 197-9

and air defence, 213

and Malta, 218, 219, 228

and Crete, 228, 229, 232, 241

and Western Desert offensive, COMPASS, 230, 239, 253, 258-61, 264-5, 271, 273, 275, 277, 355-7, 364

reticence of, 230-1

and Greece, 231, 338-43, 377, 379-80, 383, 387

sends 4th Indian Division to Sudan, 265, 271, 277, 399

13th Corps comes under, 289

and the Long Range Desert Group, 295-6

sets up Cyrenaica Command, 364

recommends garrison for Cyrenaica, 375

and East African campaign, 392-6, 402-4, 406, 408, 411, 415, 420-1, 440, 443

and the Sudan, 392

Weichold, Vice-Admiral: 146n

Weinholt, Lieutenant A.: 184

Wellington, bomber aircraft: weight of, 70n

Wells, Rear-Admiral Sir Gerard: 80

West African Command (British): 296-7

Western Arab Corps, Sudan Defence Force: 168n

Western Desert: policy for operations in, 42, 55, 187, 365

administrative development in, 65, 67-9

air force maintenance organizations in, 73

ready for war with Italy, 97, 100

first air operations in, 112-4

reduction of air forces in, 114

general description of, 115-7

first patrols in, 118-9, 187-8, 205

(offensive in) 230, 239

air support for, 253, 261-2

plans and preparations for, 259-61, 263-5

naval support for, 261, 271

maintenance in, 262-3, 271, 278-81, 288-90, 355

battle of Sidi Barrani, 266-75

capture of Bardia, 270-1, 277-8, 281-7

capture of Tobruk, 281, 287-93

activity round Mechili and Derna, 351-5

the battle of Beda Fomm, 356-62

review of campaign, 362-4

Western Desert Force: set up, 97

ready for war, 100

becomes 13th Corps, 104

objectives of, 118, 258-9

and battle of Sidi Barrani, 259, 262, 272-3

and capture of Bardia, 278

transport of, 279

now see 13th Corps

West Yorkshire Regiment, 2nd Bn: 169, 171, 438

Wetherall, Major-General H. E. de R.: 417-19, 422

Weygand, General Maxime: visits Commanders-in-Chief, 51, 88

career of 51n

recalled to France, 89, 123n

distrusted by Italians, 354

Williamson, Lieutenant-Commander K.: 236-7

Wilson, Captain E. C. T.: 177

Wilson, Lieut.-General Sir H. Maitland: 97

and Egyptian Army dispositions, 42, 54

plans future operations, 54

and loss of British Somaliland, 176-8

and battle of Sidi Barrani COMPASS, 259, 265

no longer responsible for 13th Corps, 289

commands in Cyrenaica, 365

to command force for Greece, 378, 385, 470

and talks with Greeks, 383

Wingate, Major (later Lieut.-Colonel) O. C.: 391

plans Patriot operations, 404-6

commands Gideon Force, 406

in campaign of Gideon Force, 424-7, 449

Wolchefit Pass: British Force watches, 443

Wolfe, General: 389

Wolkait: Italian garrison withdraws from, 401, 405

Worcestershire Regiment, 1st Bn: 169, 438, 445

WORKSHOP: 307-9, 324-5

–Y–

Yemen: strategical importance of, 16

York, HMS: for Mediterranean Fleet, 156n, 192, 212

in convoy operations, 219, 309, 320

York and Lancaster Regiment, 2nd Bn: 228-9

Yugoslavia: Italian threat to, 83, 225

re-actions to Oran, 142

resolved to oppose Germans, 341

coup d’état in, 349

attitude affects defence of Greece, 378-9, 383

diplomatic approaches to, 379-80, 382

–Z–

Zeffiro: 149-50

Zog, King of Albania: 24