5th MAY 1942 – ON THIS DAY IN RWF HISTORY

2 RWF landed on Madagascar, 1942

Following the entry of Japan into the war in December 1941, the island of Madagascar, with its natural harbour, was seen as a possible target for the Japanese fleet. It was in the hands of the Vichy French. A force which included 29 Independent Brigade Group with 2 RWF was put ashore 12 miles from Diego Suarez, which surrendered three days later. It was not until November, however, that the surrender of the island was finally agreed.