MIDDLE EAST 1941-43

The two regiments took part in the Sidi Rezegh battles, in the pursuit of Rommel to El Agheila. After returning to Cairo for reinforcement and re-equipment with Grant tanks, they were back on the Gazala Line in April 1942. They were closely involved in the bitter fighting of May-June 1942 around the Cauldron and the Knightsbridge Box which culminated in the long hard retreat to the El Alamein line.

Grant and Crusader tanks of 3CLY ready
to go into action in the Western Desert 1942

Here the two Regiments parted company, 3CLY becoming part of the 2nd Armoured Brigade while 4CLY remained with 22nd Armoured Brigade. One squadron of 3CLY joined 4CLY to defend the Alam El Halfa ridge when the Germans launched their last all-out offensive. After two days of bitter fighting, the Sharpshooters held on forcing Rommel to withdraw marking the turning point in the desert campaign. As the Kent Yeomanry (RA) also provided fire support during the battle, it is now celebrated by the Kent and Sharpshooters Yeomanry as the most important battle in which all three regiments took part.

SICILY 1943>