Battle Honour NORTH AFRICA 1942-43

The distinction NORTH AFRICA1942-43 is emblazoned on The King's Colour of The Royal Irish Regiment. It is a Theatre Honour and was awarded to our antecedent regiments for their actions during the Second World War with 38 (Irish) Brigade.

At the end of April 1943, having successfully defeated the Germans occupying the high ground to the west of Tunis, the Allies prepared to advance again; the approaches to the city were clear for the final advance which began on 6 May 1943.

As 38 (Irish) Brigade had spent 4-6 May in a rest area, it was allocated the task of clearing the enemy from the city. Anticipating a period of bitter street fighting, the Brigade moved forward, but to its delight, it was advised on the morning of 8 May, that the enemy in and around the city had surrendered on 7 May. On entering Tunis, the men of the Irish Brigade saw column after column of prisoners awaiting collection. The Brigade remained in Tunis until the end of May; during that time everyone relaxed and also prepared for the Victory Parade, which took place on 20 May.

The battalions of the antecedent regiments that fought with 38 (Irish) Brigade and earned the distinction NORTH AFRICA 1942-43 were:

6th Battalion The Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers
2nd Battalion The London Irish Rifles
1st Battalion The Royal Irish Fusiliers