Search JTA's historical archive dating back to 1923

Formation of Jewish Brigade Group Announced by Britain; Will Fight on War Fronts

September 20, 1944
See Original Daily Bulletin From This Date
Advertisement

The British Government announced today that a Jewish Brigade Group will be formed and will be assigned to active operations. The formation of the group follows repeated demands by the Jewish Agency for Palestine for a separate Jewish fighting force to participate in the liberation of Europe from the Germans.

(The British Information Service has said that the strength of a pre-war brigade was about 3,000, but that they have been greatly enlarged since the war. The present figure cannot be divulged for reasons of military security. A brigade is larger than a regiment, but smaller than a division.)

An infantry brigade, the announcement said, will be based on the Jewish infantry battalions now attached to the Palestine Regiment. The necessary concentration of troops for training is now taking place before the unit is sent to a theatre of war.

Supporting and auxiliary units which will complete the group are now being formed, the Government revealed, and they will join the new infantry brigade as soon as it is practicable. Details of the scheme are being discussed with officials of the Jewish Agency, which has been invited to cooperate with the military authorities.

Recommended from JTA

Advertisement