1st Armoured Brigade (United Kingdom) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids 1st Light Armoured Brigade 1st Armoured Brigade 1st Armoured Brigade Group
Active	Until November 1942
Country	United Kingdom
Branch	British Army
Type	Armoured formation
Role	Armoured warfare
Size	Brigade
Part of	BEF Force HQ Greece Eighth Army
Engagements	Battle of France Battle of Mount Olympus Second Battle of El Alamein
Commanders
Brigadier	Willoughby Norrie, 1st Baron Norrie
(Acting) Lieutenant-Colonel	Reginald Keller

The 1st Armoured Brigade was a special military group in the British Army. It was made up of tanks and other armoured vehicles. This group was first called the 1st Light Armoured Brigade. Later, it was known as the 1st Armoured Brigade Group. It played an important role during World War II.

The Brigade's Journey in World War II

This section tells you about the 1st Armoured Brigade's history. It covers where they were and what battles they fought in.

Early Days and Moving to Egypt

When World War II began, the brigade was in the United Kingdom. It was part of the 1st Armoured Division at first. Then, it joined the new 2nd Armoured Division. In November 1940, the brigade traveled by ship to Egypt. They arrived there on January 1, 1941.

Fighting in Greece

In March 1941, the brigade was sent to Greece. They went there to try and stop the German invasion. This effort was led by General Maitland Wilson. However, it was not successful. On April 29, 1941, the brigade had to leave Greece. They were moved back to Egypt for safety.

Battles in the Desert

The 1st Armoured Brigade then fought in the Western Desert Campaign. This was a series of battles in North Africa. They were part of the 7th Armoured Division. One of their most important battles was the Second Battle of El Alamein. This battle took place in Egypt. The brigade was officially ended on November 21, 1942.

Who Led the Brigade?

The 1st Armoured Brigade had several leaders during its time. These officers were in charge of the brigade and its soldiers.

• Brigadier Charles Willoughby Moke Norrie was one of the first leaders. He led the brigade from September 1939 to April 1940.
• Brigadier Harold 'Rollie' Vincent Spencer Charrington led the brigade for a long time. He was in charge from April 1940 to June 1941, with a short break.
• Lieutenant-Colonel Reginald Keller also took command for short periods. He was an acting leader in June and July 1941.
• Brigadier George Herbert Norris Todd was the last commander. He led the brigade from June 1942 until it was disbanded in November 1942.

See also

• British Armoured formations of World War II
• List of British brigades of the Second World War