The North African Campaign

[Kieron Hill]

Hi all,

When you read numerous books and come across place names
Like Sollum, Bardia, Derna, Benghazi etc...etc... It’s sometimes
Hard to imagine what the places look like unless you were actually
There. I was lucky enough to come across a Royal Artillery
Gunners photo album, which has not only given me great pleasure,
But has also given me a wider insight into where my grandfather served,
As he also served with the 8th Army (7th Armoured Div/1/6th Queens
Royal West Regiment) in North Africa.

In this photo album there are not just pictures of War, there are pictures
Of people going about their everyday lifes, which is hard to believe
When a few miles away there was a raging battle taking place and
People were dying, or is this just my naivety.

This gentleman's B.H.Q. was in Alexandria and therefore must have
Spent his time while not manning his Anti -aircraft battery walking
The streets of Alexandria and surrounding areas taking pictures of
These everyday people: the brick maker, the peanut seller, the
Baker, the barber etc…and it’s these pictures that I would like to
Share with you all.

I have also included some pictures of Sullom pass, Derna pass,
Bardia Bridge and Benghazi all of which saw some fierce fighting
During the North African campaign, with many attacks and
Counter-attacks for both sides.

I hope you all enjoy.

Regards
Kieron