Britain at War – Gerry van Tonder

Forgotten Airmen

From May 1940 to March 1954, the Royal Air Force (RAF) had a functional presence in the self-governing British colony in Africa, Southern Rhodesia. As part of the Empire Air Training Scheme, the Rhodesian Air Training Group (RATG) was activated for the training of RAF and Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (RAFVR) pilot cadets, navigators, air observers and air gunners.

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Battle of Elands River

By Gerry van Tonder

By August 1900, ten months after the outbreak of hostilities between British forces and those of the Transvaal and Orange Free State Boer republics in South Africa, Her Majesty’s troops were starting to gain the ascendency across the subcontinent in what became known as the Second Boer War.

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Treasure Hunters: Mashona Rebellion 1896–7

By Gerry van Tonder

On the eve of 125 years since the Mashona Rebellion, Gerry van Tonder delves into this bloody battle between British troops and African tribesmen

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Pearson’s Holdouts: Siege of Eshowe Anglo-Zulu War

By Gerry van Tonder

As commander of one of the three self-contained columns constituting Lord Chelmsford’s invasion force into Zululand in January 1879, Colonel Charles Pearson diligently studied his commander’s instructions. Notwithstanding the ominous and very real possibility of having “the whole Zulu force” descend on his Eshowe garrison, the quintessential Victorian army officer’s response was unequivocal.

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The Running Dogs of War: Malayan Emergency 1948–1960

By Gerry van Tonder

The Malayan Emergency (1948-1960) was a guerrilla war between British forces and communist insurgents in Malaya. Sparked by communist demands for recognition and fueled by Maoist propaganda, the conflict saw brutal hit-and-run tactics. British strategies, including forced resettlement, gradually quelled the insurgency. The war ended following Malaya's independence in 1957, with the emergency officially declared over in 1960.

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Against the Red Tide Part 1: 27th British Commonwealth Brigade’s Korean War

By Gerry van Tonder

"Against the Red Tide Part 1" highlights the 27th British Commonwealth Brigade's pivotal role in the Korean War. Deploying from Hong Kong and integrating units from the Commonwealth, they played a key part in defending the Pusan Perimeter and advancing into North Korea. Their journey from the Inchon landing through to the Chinese intervention underscores the brigade's resilience and strategic impact amidst coalition forces, navigating the harsh realities of warfare and complex logistical challenges in a pivotal Cold War conflict.

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Against the Red Tide Part 2: 27th British Commonwealth Brigade’s Korean War

By Gerry van Tonder

"Against the Red Tide Part 2" narrates the 27th British Commonwealth Brigade's enduring struggle in the Korean War through 1951. Tasked with covering retreats and serving as the rearguard for Seoul's evacuation, the brigade faced daunting challenges against Chinese forces. Their heroic stands, particularly at the Imjin River and Kapyong, where they sustained heavy casualties but demonstrated extraordinary heroism, are highlighted. The brigade's significant contributions were recognized with a change in command and an American Presidential Unit citation for their actions near Kapyong, reflecting their critical role in the UN's military campaign.

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Canada’s First Stand: Battle of Vimy Ridge

By Gerry van Tonder

"Canada’s First Stand: Battle of Vimy Ridge" marks a defining moment for Canada during WWI, showcasing its military prowess and national unity. In April 1917, the Canadian Corps, for the first time fighting together, captured Vimy Ridge through a well-coordinated attack planned by Lt Gen Sir Julian Byng. This victory, achieved at great cost, symbolized Canada's emergence as a nation with a significant role on the global stage, contributing to its path towards legislative independence and fostering a deep sense of national pride.

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Shot at Dawn: Deserters in WWI

By Gerry van Tonder

"Shot at Dawn: Deserters in WWI" explores the contentious issue of executing soldiers for desertion and cowardice, against the backdrop of WWI's harsh realities and evolving military law. It highlights the historical debate on military discipline versus the acknowledgment of soldiers' mental distress, culminating in the 2006 pardons of those executed, recognizing them as war victims. The narrative sheds light on the long battle for justice by families, reflecting a broader understanding of the psychological scars of war and the significance of honoring all who suffered.

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The Peacemaker General: Field Marshall Herbert Plumer

By Gerry van Tonder

Field Marshal Herbert Plumer, "Old Plum," is remembered for his leadership in WWI and as High Commissioner to Palestine, where he worked to foster peace between Jews and Arabs. Celebrated for his apolitical and fair administration, Plumer's efforts improved living conditions for all under his governance. Despite health issues, his commitment to duty earned him the title of Viscount. Plumer's legacy, marked by military distinction and effective civilian governance, culminated in a revered burial at Westminster Abbey, reflecting the deep respect and gratitude of the nation and its king for one of Britain's greatest generals.

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Ahead of Her Time: Lady Sarah Wilson

By Gerry van Tonder

Lady Sarah Spencer-Churchill, an aristocrat and Winston Churchill's aunt, broke Victorian norms as one of the first female war correspondents during the Second Boer War. She reported on the Siege of Mafeking for the Daily Mail, served as a nurse, and even engaged in espionage. Captured by the Boers but undeterred, Lady Sarah's adventurous spirit and defiance of societal expectations marked her as a pioneering figure. Her contributions to journalism and wartime nursing left a legacy of challenging gender barriers. She passed away in 1929, a woman truly ahead of her time.

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