Some ANZAC OOB points
The order for a reorganisation of the AIF Infantry to a ‘mechanised’ one was issued in December 1939. This reorganisation brought the Infantry Bns in line with the British establishment. 6 Div at that time being the only raised Division. The AMF units were not affected by this order.
1. 6 Div Cav Regt, (Mechanised), was not equipped with Carriers till late/post Feb 1940, when in Palestine. Regt only part equipped with carriers there were no tanks.
2. Australia had no carriers till 1940. Troops sent to the ME and NA were equipped from British stocks.
3. Most Infantry Bns, AIF & AMF were still training with Lewis LMGs. Some AIF Bns managed to get to a Bren LMG late November 1939, about 1 month before being shipped off the Palestine, Dec 1939. Many AMF units still were only equipped with Lewis LMG till late 1942.
4. Aust units has SMG in use 1941, these were either Thompson or Sten, (British model) SMGs. The Owen and the Auseten were not introduced till 1942. In SWP main SMGs Thompson and Owen. NA and ME Thompson and some Stens.
5. 6 Div Cav Regt, (Mechanised), when move back to Egypt, Sep 40 had carriers and a few Vickers III/IV for Trg only. The tanks were not battle worthy. Also parts of Regt were using wheeled vehicles due to lack of carriers..
Just some points of interest
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