Colin “Tiny” Barber who led 15th Div in 1944-45 was in France in 1940 and I am trying to find out his movements. At some point before 10th May he was Major Barber, G2 of 51st Highland Division but by May when he earned his first DSO (two bars, not one were awarded in 1944) he was in Polforce near Arras. His citation states he commanded what looks like “Don Details” and his exemplary leadership of these ad-hoc companies led to his award. Does anyone know what these Don Details were and how Barber ended up in Polforce? Thanks Adam
I should add that some sources I’ve seen suggest Barber was CO of 4th Camerons in France. He didn’t take command of the battalion until its reconstitution in the renumbered 9th Div in November 1940. Adam
Here's a short video with some cracking photos of him (1) The tallest officer in the British Army - YouTube Thanks Adam
I had to smile at this one. My surname changed when my mum remarried, but I was originally a Barber. I happen to be 6ft7 and am from Kent where this gent seems to have settled according to Wikipedia!
Thanks Mark. I'll have to have a look at it. Looks like a useful resource for other officers. Thanks Adam
"Don Details" were BEF men returning from leave and Barber may have been in the same position if he was still the 51st's intelligence officer according to the army list but caught up with the main body of the BEF. Adam