The Gordon Highlanders 1919-1945

The Gordon Highlanders 1919-1945 by Wilfrid Miles The history of the 1st Battalion, Gordon Highlanders, is one of resilience and sacrifice. Originally part of the 2nd Infantry Brigade, they were among the first British troops sent to France in September 1939, shortly after the declaration of war. The battalion remained in France until May 1940, when it was exchanged with the Territorial Army 6th Battalion and transferred to the 153rd Infantry Brigade. In 1940, the battalion played a significant role in the Battle of France, where they were trapped and forced to surrender at Saint-Valéry-en-Caux. However, the battalion was reformed in the United Kingdom in August 1940 and went on to serve with the second formation of the 51st (Highland) Division, fighting in North Africa, Sicily, and North-western Europe. The Gordon Highlanders also had a battalion based in Malaya, which fought in the battle for Singapore in February 1942. The men of this battalion suffered significant casualties during their time as prisoners of war in Japanese captivity. Despite these challenges, the battalion continued to serve throughout World War II, playing an important role in the Allied victory.