98th Brigade (United Kingdom)

The 98th Brigade was a formation of the British Army that existed during both World War I and World War II. Its composition and roles differed significantly between the two conflicts.

World War I

During World War I, the 98th Brigade was part of the 33rd Division. It was formed in the United Kingdom in late 1915 and deployed to the Western Front in 1916. The brigade saw action in several major battles, including the Somme (1916), Arras (1917), and the Hundred Days Offensive (1918). Its constituent battalions typically consisted of Kitchener's Army units. After the armistice, the brigade was involved in occupation duties before being disbanded.

World War II

In World War II, the 98th Brigade was initially designated as the 98th Support Group within the 1st Support Group. Later, it was reorganized and redesignated as the 98th Infantry Brigade, serving within the 50th (Northumbrian) Infantry Division. It participated in the Battle of France in 1940, where it suffered heavy losses and was evacuated from Dunkirk. After rebuilding, the brigade served in the Middle East, including action in North Africa at the Battle of Gazala and subsequent fighting during the retreat to El Alamein. The brigade was later transferred back to the United Kingdom and participated in the Normandy landings in June 1944, landing on Gold Beach as part of the 50th Division. It continued fighting in Northwest Europe throughout the remainder of the war, participating in operations in France, Belgium, and the Netherlands.