Sharpshooters at War

Chronicles the Sharpshooters' journey from their chaotic early days to preparation and deployment during WWII.

The Sharpshooters archive has an incredible collection of over 8,000 photographs taken during WWII. Combining this with our Regimental records and numerous personal accounts, they tell a unique and fascinating story about the life of both the unit and the remarkable individuals who took served during the war. This second volume follows the development of both Sharpshooters Regiments from the phoney war to their first deployment overseas, two years later. The story is all the more compelling as they were made up of a blend of part-time soldiers, a smattering of professionals and numerous drafts of conscripts – ordinary people called on to do extraordinary things.

1.Forging the tool

This first section looks at the chaos of the first few days of war where the Regiment had to suddenly take on – and find accommodation for – two entire regiments in the centre of London. At that time this was the only armoured brigade entirely composed of Territorial troops – not that they had anything that might resemble a tank.

2. Working Up

Within a few days they were sent to the West Country, around Ilfracombe, where they overwintered, whilst beginning the process of turning a motley but enthusiastic band of novices into an efficient fighting unit. Over the following two years we follow the story of the two regiments as they prepare for War

3. Deployment

After a final embarkation leave, the regiments were brought to readiness with additional personnel to bring them over strength before embarking at Liverpool.