20th Independent Infantry Brigade (Guards)

The 20th Independent Infantry Brigade was an infantry brigade of the British Army, raised during the Second World War.

20th Independent Infantry Brigade (Guards)
ActiveApril 1940–September 1941
Country United Kingdom
Branch British Army
TypeInfantry
SizeBrigade
EngagementsBattle of Boulogne
Commanders
Notable
commanders
Sir Oliver Leese
William Fox-Pitt

History

edit

The brigade was formed in Aldershot Command in April 1940.[1] It served during the Battle of France in 1940, briefly defending Boulogne in May 1940 (22–23 May 1940) before being successfully evacuated.[2] After return to the United Kingdom, the brigade served in Eastern Command and London District.[1]

On 15 September 1941, the brigade was converted into the 5th Guards Armoured Brigade; a component of the Guards Armoured Division.[1] It served with distinction through the battles in Normandy, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany.

Commanders

edit

The following officers commanded the brigade:[1]

Order of battle

edit

The following units comprised the brigade:[1]

Notes

edit
  1. ^ a b c d e Joslen, p. 262.
  2. ^ Ellis, Chapter X : Defence of the Channel Ports: 22nd May to 26th May 1940, pp. 153–159; accessdate = 29 November 2012.

References

edit
  • Major L.F. Ellis, History of the Second World War, United Kingdom Military Series: The War in France and Flanders 1939–1940, London: HM Stationery Office, 1954.
  • Joslen, H. F. (2003) [1960]. Orders of Battle: Second World War, 1939–1945. Uckfield, East Sussex: Naval and Military Press. ISBN 978-1-84342-474-1.