24 Airmobile Brigade

First World War

The 24th Infantry Brigade was formed in November 1914 and during the [[First World War] it became part of the 8th Division of the British Army.

The brigade saw action at Ypres (now know as Ieper in Flemish) and during the Somme offensive in Picardy, Northern France.

Two Victoria Crosses were awarded to soldiers serving in the brigade during WWI. The Brigade was demobilised on returning to the UK in 1919 at wars end.

Second World War

In February 1940 the brigade was reformed as the 24th Guards Brigade just in time for the Norwegian Campaign when German forces invaded Norway (Operation Weserübung).

The Brigade also saw service during the North African campaignand finished the war fighting in the Italian Campaign.

Post war 1945 - 1988

In 1947 it became 24th Infantry Brigade and served in Kenya, Aden and Northern Ireland before returning to the UK in 1955. and becoming 24 Airmobile Brigade in 1988.

24 Airmobile Brigade

The brigade was based at Catterick Garrison with units based at Dishforth Airfield. In 1993 the Brigade moved to Colchester Garrison from Catterick in 1993 when it was assigned to the Multinational Division (Central) (MND(C)) as part of the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps.

The Brigade's Gryphon-wings emblem was inspired by the family crest of former commander, Major General FAM (Boy) Browning.

On 1 September 1999 from an amalgamation with the 5th Airborne Brigades, the brigade became part of the 16 Air Assault Brigade at Colchester.