KORR and RAF Deaths in May 1941 during the Anglo-Iraqi War

Kings Own Royal Regiment / RAF Deaths in Iraq Honour Board

Though many stories of valour have been told regarding the Anglo-Iraqi War in 1941 and the brief siege of RAF Habbaniya that lasted from the 2nd May until the 31st May when the base was finally relieved, not many people are aware of the high loss of life experienced by the 1st Battalion of the Kings Own Royal Regiment (KORR) and the Royal Air Force during that time. From the total of sixty-five deaths, twenty-nine were men from the KORR and thirty-six from the RAF. At the time of the Anglo-Iraqi War, the KORR was part of the 10th Indian Infantry Division. The highest-ranked officer from the KORR was a major, while the highest from the RAF was a group captain. A wooden plaque was later erected at RAF Habbaniya in memory of the sixty-five men who died for their country thousands of miles away in Iraq. A photograph of the plaque is attached to this post.

Memorial to honour the sixty-five men of the KORR and RAF who died in 1941 during the Siege of Habbaniya, Iraq

Anglo-Iraqi War - KORR Losses

The losses suffered by the Kings Own Royal Regiment during this conflict were significant. Here are the names of the brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice:

• Pte J J Short

• Pte N Fitzpatrick

• Pte W Butler

• Pte W Campbell

• Pte V Rogers

• Lt J Thompson

• Pte W Levell

• Maj P H F Evans

• Pte W Fleming

• Pte J D Benson

• Pte J J Rooney

• Pte J Adshead

• L/Cpl E L Classon

• Pte L Gabbert

• Pte R Jones

• Pte C Wilson

• Pte R Wilson

• 2 Lt C J Hodgson

• Pte W G Jones

• Pte G Bilsborrow

• Pte F Vallery

• Pte J L Yates

• L/Cpl W Kirby

• Pte G A Owen

• L/Cpl J Quinn

• CSM J Maguire

• Pte W Smith

• Pte J McNulty

• Pte F Bailey

  
  

Anglo-Iraqi War - RAF Losses

The Royal Air Force also faced heavy losses during the siege. Here are the names of the airmen who lost their lives:

• AC1 L G Cripps

• F/Sgt A E M Prickett

• WO E V Girdwood

• LAC E W Mace

• F/Sgt A G Couch

• LAC J Smith

• Cpl G E Skinner

• LAC R S Skelton

• LAC G I Robertson

• F/Off D H Walsh

• F/Sgt H Brattan

• F/Sgt P G Osborn

• AC2 M Lynch

• Cpl H C Johnson

• W/Cdr J C Shakeshaft

• LAC H E Minor

• F/Off G D F Herrtage

• (acting) Gp Capt R Jope-Slade

• F/Sgt H D Rowe

• LAC N A Moore

• S/Ldr W R McCleery

• F/Sgt J Bishop

• LAC P H Shepherd

• Cpl W Cummings

• LAC J D Richards

• F/Sgt G Furney

• Sgt G F Humber

• Sgt A Gordon

• AC1 V M Everix

• P/Off P R Gillespy

• LAC L J Blackhall

• P/Off J S H Fairweather

• P/Off I McG Pringle

• Sgt D W Robinson

• F/Lt Sir R A T MacRobert

• Sgt C T Dennett

  
  

The Legacy of Flight Lieutenant Sir Roderic Alan MacRobert

It is interesting to note that Flight Lieutenant Sir Roderic Alan MacRobert was one of three MacRobert brothers who lost their lives in World War II. Their mother, Lady MacRobert, set up the MacRoberts Trust. She donated millions of dollars to the RAF and sponsored a perpetual 'Sir Roderic' aircraft at 6 Squadron RAF since 1941. Sir Roderic flew with 6 Squadron before being posted to 94 Squadron.

Remembering Their Sacrifice

The sacrifices made by these brave individuals remind us of the harsh realities of war. Each name on the honour board represents a life cut short, a family left behind, and a story that deserves to be told. As we reflect on their bravery, we must also acknowledge the importance of preserving their memory.

The Importance of Preservation

Preserving the history of these events is crucial. It allows future generations to understand the sacrifices made by those who served. It also ensures that the stories of these brave men and women are not forgotten.

How You Can Help

If you feel inspired to contribute, consider supporting efforts aimed at restoring and preserving war cemeteries. Every little bit helps in keeping the memories alive. You can also share this post with others who might be interested in learning more about the history of the Kings Own Royal Regiment and the RAF during the Anglo-Iraqi War.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the honour board at RAF Habbaniya serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the Anglo-Iraqi War. It is essential to keep these stories alive, not just for the sake of history but for the families and descendants of those who served. Let us continue to remember and honour their legacy.

By sharing this information and advocating for preservation, we can ensure that their stories are told for generations to come.