What was the primary purpose of the 79th Armoured Division of the British Army during World War II?

The 79th Armoured Division was a specialist armoured division created during World War II, primarily to develop and operate specialized armored vehicles. These vehicles were designed to overcome obstacles and provide support for amphibious landings and assaults, particularly in preparation for the Normandy invasion.

When was the 79th Armoured Division active?

The 79th Armoured Division was active from August 14, 1942, until August 20, 1945.

Who was the notable commander of the 79th Armoured Division?

Major-General Sir Percy Hobart commanded the 79th Armoured Division and was instrumental in the development of its specialized armored vehicles.

What nickname was given to the specialized tanks developed and operated by the 79th Armoured Division?

The unusual-looking tanks developed and operated by the 79th Armoured Division were famously known as "Hobart's Funnies."

What types of specialized functions did 'Hobart's Funnies' perform?

Hobart's Funnies included tanks designed for various specialized tasks such as floating for amphibious operations, clearing mines, destroying enemy defenses, and carrying or laying bridges and roadways to facilitate troop movement.

In which major World War II engagement did the 79th Armoured Division play a significant role?

The 79th Armoured Division played a significant role in the Normandy invasion (D-Day) and subsequent operations during the North-west European Campaign, including the Rhine crossings.

What was the division's role in the Normandy landings on D-Day?

During the Normandy landings, vehicles from the 79th Armoured Division were distributed as small units across the divisions participating in the landings, providing specialized support for the amphibious assault on the defended French coastline.

Besides Normandy, what other key operations or campaigns did the 79th Armoured Division support?

The division provided specialized support during the Battle for Brest, the Battle of the Scheldt (Operation Infatuate), the Battle for the Roer Triangle (Operation Blackcock), the Rhine crossings (Operation Plunder), the Elbe crossing, Operation Veritable, and the Battle for the Reichswald.

When was the 79th Armoured Division officially disbanded?

The 79th Armoured Division was disbanded on August 20, 1945.

What entity was formed from elements of the 79th Armoured Division after its disbandment?

After its disbandment, elements of the 79th Armoured Division were combined with the Assault Training and Development Centre to form the Specialized Armour Development Establishment (SADE).

What was the 'Duplex Drive' tank?

The 'Duplex Drive' tank, often based on the Sherman tank, was converted for amphibious use, featuring both track and propeller locomotion. It was utilized by the Allies during the initial phases of the Normandy landings in 1944.

What was the function of the Sherman Crab tank?

The Sherman Crab was a mine flail tank specifically designed to clear a safe path through minefields. It achieved this by using a rotating flail mechanism to detonate mines ahead of the vehicle, and it was first employed during the North African Campaign in 1942.

Describe the Churchill Armoured Vehicle Royal Engineers (AVRE).

The Churchill AVRE was a heavily modified Churchill tank, specifically the Churchill III or IV variants. It was armed with a powerful 'Petard' spigot mortar, capable of firing a 40-pound (18 kg) demolition bomb known as a 'Flying dustbin'.

What was the purpose of the 'Bobbin' Carpet Layer?

The 'Bobbin' Carpet Layer was a specialized Churchill AVRE equipped with a large roll of matting. This matting could be deployed onto beaches or other soft surfaces to create a more stable path for vehicles.

How did the Fascine Carrier AVRE assist in overcoming obstacles?

The Fascine Carrier was a Churchill AVRE modified to carry and deploy large bundles of sticks, known as fascines. These were used to fill in holes or ditches, creating a more stable surface for tanks and other vehicles to cross.

What capability did the Small Box Girder (SBG) bridge layer provide?

The Small Box Girder (SBG) bridge layer, based on the Churchill AVRE, was equipped to carry and deploy a bridge. This allowed it to span gaps, such as ditches or small water obstacles, up to 30 feet wide.

What was the function of the Churchill Armoured Ramp Carrier (ARK)?

The Churchill Armoured Ramp Carrier (ARK) was a turretless Churchill tank fitted with ramps at both the front and rear. When deployed, these ramps allowed the ARK to act as a mobile bridge, enabling vehicles to cross obstacles.

What was the 'Buffalo' Landing Vehicle Tracked (LVT)?

The 'Buffalo' was a tracked, amphibious vehicle (Landing Vehicle Tracked) used by the British Army. Its primary role was to transport supplies and personnel from ships to shore, and it saw service during operations like the Battle of the Scheldt and Rhine crossings.

What was the Kangaroo armoured personnel carrier?

The Kangaroo was an armoured personnel carrier created by converting surplus self-propelled guns or tanks. By removing their main armament or turrets, these vehicles could be used to transport infantry safely across the battlefield. Its development occurred after the D-Day landings.

What was the purpose of the Canal Defence Light (CDL)?

The Canal Defence Light (CDL) was a specialized tank modification that mounted a powerful carbon-arc searchlight. Its primary function was to dazzle and disorient enemy troops, particularly in defensive situations or during night assaults.

How was the Churchill Crocodile different from a standard Churchill tank?

The Churchill Crocodile was a variant of the Churchill VII tank that replaced the hull-mounted machine gun with a flamethrower. It carried its fuel supply in a separate, armored trailer towed behind the tank.

What was the initial organization of the 79th Armoured Division when it was first raised in August 1942?

Initially, the 79th Armoured Division was formed as a conventional armoured division. It included an Armoured Brigade, an Infantry Brigade, and supporting arms.

Which infantry and artillery units were part of the 79th Armoured Division's initial structure but were later removed?

The 185th Infantry Brigade and its artillery regiments were removed by April 1943. Engineer units were generally removed by November 1943. The division's focus shifted entirely to specialized armored vehicles.

Which Armoured Brigade was attached to the 79th Armoured Division from September 1942 to October 1943?

The 27th Armoured Brigade was attached to the 79th Armoured Division during this period. It included regiments like the 4th/7th Royal Dragoon Guards, 13th/18th Royal Hussars, and the 1st East Riding Yeomanry.

Which Armoured Brigade was transferred to the 79th Armoured Division in October 1943?

The 30th Armoured Brigade transferred to the 79th Armoured Division on October 17, 1943. This brigade included units such as the 22nd Dragoons, the 2nd County of London Yeomanry (Westminster Dragoons), and the 1st Lothians and Border Horse.

What was the role of the 1st Assault Brigade Royal Engineers within the 79th Armoured Division?

The 1st Assault Brigade Royal Engineers was formed in November 1943 and provided specialized engineering support, utilizing vehicles like the Armoured Vehicle Royal Engineers (AVRE) for tasks such as clearing obstacles and bridging.

What specific units comprised the 1st Assault Brigade RE during Operation Overlord?

For Operation Overlord, the 1st Assault Brigade RE included the 5th, 6th, and 42nd Assault Regiments RE, along with the 149 Assault Park Squadron, RE. Notably, the 557 Assault Squadron, RE, remained in England as a training unit.

What specialized tanks did the 30th Armoured Brigade operate?

The 30th Armoured Brigade operated Sherman Crab tanks, which were equipped with mine-flailing devices to clear paths through minefields.

What new brigades were added to the 79th Armoured Division's order of battle by September 1944?

By September 1944, the 1st Tank Brigade and the 31st Armoured Brigade had been added to the division's order of battle. The 1st Tank Brigade utilized Grant CDL tanks, while the 31st Armoured Brigade operated Churchill Crocodile flamethrower tanks and Kangaroo armoured personnel carriers.

What type of specialized vehicles did the 1st Tank Brigade use?

The 1st Tank Brigade, attached to the 79th Armoured Division by September 1944, utilized Grant tanks equipped with Canal Defence Lights (CDL), powerful searchlights designed for battlefield illumination and disorientation.

What types of specialized vehicles were operated by the 31st Armoured Brigade?

The 31st Armoured Brigade operated Churchill Crocodile flamethrower tanks and Kangaroo armoured personnel carriers. These provided significant fire support and troop mobility capabilities.

What was the purpose of the 33rd Armoured Brigade when it was part of the 79th Armoured Division's order of battle in March 1945?

The 33rd Armoured Brigade, operating LVT 4s (Landing Vehicle Tracked), was part of the 79th Armoured Division's order of battle for the Rhine crossing (Operation Varsity). This indicated the division's expanded role and requirement for amphibious transport capabilities.

What was the significance of the 79th Armoured Division's order of battle in March 1945?

The order of battle in March 1945 demonstrated the division's growth and the increasing demand for specialized armored vehicles, reflecting its crucial role in the final stages of the North-west European campaign.

Which regiments were part of the 31st Armoured Brigade in March 1945, and what equipment did they use?

In March 1945, the 31st Armoured Brigade included the 1st Fife and Forfar Yeomanry and the 141st Regiment Royal Armoured Corps, both equipped with Churchill Crocodiles, and the 7th Royal Tank Regiment, also with Crocodiles. Additionally, the 49th Armoured Personnel Carrier Regiment and the 1st Canadian Armoured Carrier Regiment operated Kangaroo armoured personnel carriers.

What was the role of the Staffordshire Yeomanry within the 79th Armoured Division?

The Staffordshire Yeomanry was part of the 79th Armoured Division's divisional troops, operating Sherman DD tanks, which were amphibious variants of the Sherman tank.

What was the 79th Armoured Division's contribution to the Siegfried Line campaign?

The 79th Armoured Division provided specialized armored support during the Siegfried Line campaign, including critical operations like the Battle of the Scheldt and the Battle for the Roer Triangle.

How did Major-General Percy Hobart's prior experience influence the 79th Armoured Division?

Percy Hobart had previously commanded the 7th Armoured Division and was involved in training the 11th Armoured Division. His experience and vision were crucial in developing the specialized armored vehicles that became the hallmark of the 79th Armoured Division, earning them the nickname 'Hobart's Funnies'.

What was the purpose of the Churchill AVRE's Petard mortar?

The Petard mortar on the Churchill AVRE fired a large, 40-pound (18 kg) demolition bomb, often called a 'Flying dustbin'. This weapon was designed to destroy heavily fortified enemy positions, bunkers, and obstacles.

When was the Sherman Crab mine flail tank first utilized?

The Sherman Crab mine flail tank, designed to clear minefields, was first used during the North African Campaign in 1942.

What specific operations within the Battle of Normandy involved the 79th Armoured Division's support?

The 79th Armoured Division provided support during operations within the Battle of Normandy, including Operation Charnwood and Operation Jupiter.

What was the function of the 'Buffalo' amphibious vehicles used by the 79th Armoured Division?

The 'Buffalo' vehicles, a type of Landing Vehicle Tracked (LVT), were used to transport supplies and personnel from ships to shore, proving particularly useful during amphibious operations like the crossing of the Scheldt and the Rhine.

What role did the Canal Defence Light (CDL) tanks play?

The Canal Defence Light (CDL) tanks mounted powerful searchlights designed to dazzle and confuse enemy forces, providing a tactical advantage during night operations or assaults.

What was the significance of the 79th Armoured Division's specialized equipment for the invasion of France?

The specialized equipment, known as 'Hobart's Funnies', was crucial for the invasion of France as it enabled the Allied forces to overcome beach obstacles, clear minefields, breach defenses, and establish a foothold on the heavily fortified Normandy coast.

Which units were part of the 79th Armoured Division's initial structure in August 1942?

Upon its formation in August 1942, the 79th Armoured Division was structured as a standard armoured division, including the 27th Armoured Brigade, the 185th Infantry Brigade, and supporting Royal Artillery regiments.

What was the primary objective of the specialized vehicles developed by the 79th Armoured Division?

The primary objective was to provide solutions for the challenges of amphibious landings on defended coastlines and to facilitate the breakthrough of enemy defenses, thereby enabling the invasion force to advance more effectively.

Which specific battles were part of the Siegfried Line campaign where the 79th Armoured Division was involved?

The 79th Armoured Division was involved in battles within the Siegfried Line campaign, specifically mentioning the Battle of the Scheldt and the Battle for the Roer Triangle (Operation Blackcock).

What was the role of the 79th Armoured Division in relation to the 21st Army Group?

The 79th Armoured Division provided specialized support to the 21st Army Group during the North-west European Campaign, and occasionally extended this support to American units operating outside the 21st Army Group's command.

What type of specialized vehicles did the 49th Armoured Personnel Carrier Regiment operate?

The 49th Armoured Personnel Carrier Regiment operated Kangaroo armoured personnel carriers, which were converted tanks used to transport infantry.

What was the purpose of the 'Y Division' mentioned in the context of British divisions?

The 'Y Division' is listed among British divisions, though its specific role or equipment is not detailed in this text. It is part of a broader list of British formations.

What were the key engagements listed for the 79th Armoured Division?

The key engagements listed for the 79th Armoured Division include the Battle of Normandy (with specific operations like Charnwood and Jupiter), Operation Clipper, Operation Plunder, the Siegfried Line campaign (including the Battle of the Scheldt and Battle for the Roer Triangle), and Operation Veritable.

How did the 79th Armoured Division contribute to the Rhine crossings?

The division was of significant use during the Rhine crossings, providing specialized armored support to help Allied forces overcome the final German defenses.

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A Legacy Forged in Innovation

Genesis of a Specialized Force

The 79th Armoured Division was established on 14 August 1942, during the critical preparations for the Allied invasion of Normandy. Its primary mandate was to develop and operate specialized armoured vehicles designed to overcome the formidable challenges of amphibious landings on defended coastlines. This unique formation was placed under the command of Major-General Sir Percy Hobart, a visionary leader instrumental in pioneering these innovative armoured solutions.

Hobart's Vision: The 'Funnies'

Under Hobart's direction, the division became synonymous with its distinctive, purpose-built armoured vehicles, famously dubbed "Hobart's Funnies." These were not standard tanks but highly modified machines engineered to tackle specific battlefield obstacles. They included amphibious tanks capable of floating ashore, mine-clearing tanks, bridge-laying vehicles, and flame-throwing tanks, all designed to facilitate the crucial task of establishing a beachhead and breaking through enemy defenses.

Operational Deployment and Impact

The efficacy of Hobart's Funnies was dramatically proven during the D-Day landings on 6 June 1944. The division's specialized vehicles were distributed in small units across the attacking forces, providing essential support for the amphibious assaults. Throughout the North-west European Campaign, the 79th Armoured Division continued to offer invaluable specialized support to the 21st Army Group, playing a significant role in major operations such as the Battle of Normandy, the Battle of the Scheldt, the Rhine crossings (Operation Plunder), and the final advance into Germany. The division was disbanded on 20 August 1945, but its legacy of innovation continued through the Specialized Armour Development Establishment (SADE).

Arsenal of Innovation: Hobart's Funnies

Duplex Drive (DD) Tank

A remarkable adaptation of the Sherman tank, the DD tank featured a flotation screen and twin propellers, enabling it to launch from landing craft and swim ashore under its own power. This innovation significantly enhanced the survivability and effectiveness of armoured assaults during amphibious operations, first seeing extensive use during the Normandy landings.

Sherman Crab

This specialized tank was equipped with a rotating flail mechanism designed to detonate anti-personnel and anti-tank mines. By deliberately exploding mines ahead of the vehicle, the Sherman Crab created a safe path through minefields, a critical capability for advancing armoured formations.

Churchill Armoured Vehicle Royal Engineers (AVRE)

A heavily modified Churchill tank, the AVRE was armed with a powerful 230mm Petard spigot mortar firing a large demolition charge. It served as a versatile assault engineering vehicle, capable of destroying fortifications, clearing obstacles, and carrying specialized equipment.

Carpet Layer: Fitted with a large reel of matting to create a stable surface on soft ground or beaches.
Fascine Carrier: Equipped to carry and deploy large bundles of wooden stakes to fill ditches or craters.
Small Box Girder (SBG) Bridge Layer: Capable of carrying and deploying a bridge to span gaps up to 30 feet.
Armoured Ramp Carrier (ARK): A turretless Churchill tank with ramps at either end, designed to act as a mobile bridge or assault ramp.

Buffalo (Landing Vehicle Tracked - LVT)

While not a tank, the Buffalo was a crucial tracked amphibious vehicle used by the 79th Division. It was designed to transport troops and supplies from ships to shore, proving vital during operations like the Battle of the Scheldt and the Rhine crossings.

Churchill Crocodile

This variant of the Churchill tank featured a flamethrower replacing the hull machine gun, with fuel carried in an armoured trailer. It was highly effective in clearing fortified positions and creating psychological disruption.

Canal Defence Light (CDL)

Mounted on tanks, the CDL was a powerful carbon-arc searchlight designed to dazzle and disorient enemy forces, particularly useful in urban combat or night operations.

Kangaroo Armoured Personnel Carrier

Converted from surplus self-propelled guns or tanks by removing their turrets, Kangaroos provided protected transport for infantry, enhancing their survivability during advances.

Organizational Structure

Initial Formation (August 1942)

Initially structured as a conventional armoured division, the 79th included an Armoured Brigade, an Infantry Brigade, and supporting arms. However, its unique role soon led to significant reorganization.

27th Armoured Brigade: Equipped with tanks and supporting elements.
185th Infantry Brigade: Later transferred out to support other formations.
Royal Artillery Regiments: Provided artillery support.

Evolution for Specialised Roles (1943-1944)

By 1943, the division's structure was refined to focus on its specialized engineering and assault capabilities, incorporating dedicated Royal Engineers units and specialized armoured brigades.

1st Assault Brigade RE: Comprising regiments equipped with AVREs, Fascine Carriers, and other engineering vehicles.
30th Armoured Brigade: Primarily equipped with Sherman Crab flail tanks.
1st Tank Brigade: Utilized Grant CDL tanks.
31st Tank Brigade: Equipped with Churchill Crocodiles and Kangaroo APCs.
33rd Armoured Brigade: Focused on LVT 4s and other specialized vehicles.

Operation Overlord (Normandy Landings):

1st Assault Brigade RE (AVREs)
30th Armoured Brigade (Sherman Crabs)
Divisional Troops (including Postal Unit RE)

September 1944 (Operation Market Garden Period):

30th Armoured Brigade (Sherman Crabs)
1st Assault Brigade RE (AVREs)
1st Tank Brigade (Grant CDL tanks)
31st Tank Brigade (Churchill Crocodiles, Kangaroos)
Divisional Troops (including Staffordshire Yeomanry with DD Tanks)

March 1945 (Operation Varsity - Rhine Crossing):

1st Assault Brigade RE (AVREs, Dozers, Park Sqn)
30th Armoured Brigade (Sherman Crabs)
31st Armoured Brigade (Churchill Crocodiles, Kangaroos)
33rd Armoured Brigade (LVTs)
Divisional Troops (including Staffordshire Yeomanry with DD Tanks)

Key Engagements

Normandy Campaign (1944)

The division played a pivotal role in the D-Day landings, providing crucial support for the initial assaults. Its specialized vehicles were instrumental in overcoming beach obstacles, clearing minefields, and supporting the advance inland during operations such as Charnwood and Jupiter.

North-West Europe (1944-1945)

Following Normandy, the 79th Armoured Division was heavily involved in subsequent major operations across North-West Europe. This included critical support during the capture of the Channel ports, the arduous Battle of the Scheldt (Operation Infatuate), the clearing of the Roer Triangle (Operation Blackcock), and the vital Rhine crossings (Operation Plunder and Operation Varsity).

Final Push into Germany

The division's specialized capabilities were essential for the final Allied offensives into Germany, including operations like Veritable and the crossing of the Elbe River, demonstrating the enduring value of its unique engineering and assault support throughout the war.

Notes and Citations

Source Information

The information presented here is derived from historical records and academic sources, meticulously compiled and referenced.

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A Note on Historical Content

This document has been generated by an AI, synthesizing information from historical sources to provide an educational overview. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy based on the provided data, it is intended for informational purposes only.

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The Unstoppables

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A Legacy Forged in Innovation 📜

🚀 Genesis of a Specialized Force

💡 Hobart's Vision: The 'Funnies'

⚔️ Operational Deployment and Impact

Arsenal of Innovation: Hobart's Funnies ⚙️

🌊 Duplex Drive (DD) Tank

💥 Sherman Crab

🏗️ Churchill Armoured Vehicle Royal Engineers (AVRE)

🚢 Buffalo (Landing Vehicle Tracked - LVT)

🔥 Churchill Crocodile

🔦 Canal Defence Light (CDL)

🚶 Kangaroo Armoured Personnel Carrier

Organizational Structure 📊

📅 Initial Formation (August 1942)

➡️ Evolution for Specialised Roles (1943-1944)

Key Engagements ⚔️

🌍 Normandy Campaign (1944)

🏞️ North-West Europe (1944-1945)

🇩🇪 Final Push into Germany

Notes and Citations 📝

🔗 Source Information

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Important Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 A Note on Historical Content

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

A Legacy Forged in Innovation

Genesis of a Specialized Force

Hobart's Vision: The 'Funnies'

Operational Deployment and Impact

Arsenal of Innovation: Hobart's Funnies

Duplex Drive (DD) Tank

Sherman Crab

Churchill Armoured Vehicle Royal Engineers (AVRE)

Buffalo (Landing Vehicle Tracked - LVT)

Churchill Crocodile

Canal Defence Light (CDL)

Kangaroo Armoured Personnel Carrier

Organizational Structure

Initial Formation (August 1942)

Evolution for Specialised Roles (1943-1944)

Key Engagements

Normandy Campaign (1944)

North-West Europe (1944-1945)

Final Push into Germany

Notes and Citations

Source Information

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Important Disclaimer

A Note on Historical Content