151st Infantry Brigade (United Kingdom)
The 151st Infantry Brigade was a Territorial Army infantry brigade of the British Army. It was originally raised as the Durham Light Infantry Brigade in 1908, becoming the 151st (Durham Light Infantry) Brigade upon the formation of the Territorial Force (later Territorial Army) in 1915.
History
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Formation and World War I: As the Durham Light Infantry Brigade, the unit was part of the Northumbrian Division. It saw active service on the Western Front throughout World War I, participating in many major battles including the Second Battle of Ypres, the Battle of the Somme, the Battle of Passchendaele, and the Spring Offensive.
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Interwar Period: The brigade was reconstituted in the Territorial Army following the war.
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World War II: The brigade was mobilized again for service in World War II. It was part of the 50th (Northumbrian) Infantry Division and served extensively in North Africa, Sicily, and Northwest Europe. Notable engagements included the Battle of Gazala, the Second Battle of El Alamein, the invasion of Sicily (Operation Husky), and the Normandy landings. The brigade was instrumental in securing the Sword Beach sector on D-Day. It subsequently fought through Normandy and into Belgium and the Netherlands.
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Post-War: After the war, the Territorial Army was reformed, and the 151st Brigade was initially reformed as an independent brigade. Later, it formed part of larger formations. Over time, as the Territorial Army was restructured and reduced in size, the brigade was eventually disbanded. The lineage of its component units is perpetuated through various successor units within the modern British Army Reserve.
Composition (World War II Example)
The specific composition of the brigade varied at different points in its history. However, a typical example from World War II would include:
- Battalions of the Durham Light Infantry (typically three battalions).
- Attached support units, such as artillery, engineers, and signals.
Legacy
The 151st Infantry Brigade has a distinguished battle history and a strong connection to the Durham Light Infantry. Its service in both World Wars is remembered with pride, and its contribution to the Allied war effort is significant.