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Brigadier William George Gentry, commanding officer of the New Zealand 6th Infantry Brigade, talks about the brigade's part in the battles of the Western Desert. Recorded by the Mobile Recording Unit in North Africa.
For some time the brigade held a defensive position in the Alamein area and it took part in assaults on El Mreir in July, in which the commander of the North Island battalion was killed in a counter-attack by enemy tanks. Brigadier Clifton was taken prisoner but managed to escape with some other men. Colonel Peart won his D.S.O.
He discusses Rommel's expected attack which came at the end of August and by 3 September the enemy was retreating and one South Island battalion decided to attack southwards on the flank, with English troops. During this period Colonel Peart was mortally wounded. One company went astray and Brigadier Clifton set out to find them in a small jeep but was captured by Italians.
On 10-11 September there was a spell of leave for the Brigade.
Next, they prepared to take part in the 8th Army offensive and trained for the assault on Miteiriya Ridge.
On the 15 of October they moved back to the beach for a few days, then to the assembly areas. The Ridge was defended by minefields and he describes how these were overcome. On the night of 23 October the Brigade opened fire and eventually two lanes were opened through the minefield by the 4th of November.
[The record cover of disc U2189 carries a note from Norman Johnson to Noel Palmer, both members of the staff of the New Zealand Broadcasting Unit. To Noel Palmer it says, "Dear Noel, We are off in the morning to the 'Lord only knows when we will see you again'. We go the full distance this time as far as we know. All the best to you and Robbie". Signed
Norman]