220th Brigade (United Kingdom)


220th Brigade was a Home Service formation of the British Army during the First and Second World Wars.

First World War

220 Brigage was raised in late 1916 as part of 73rd Division, which had the dual role of training men for overseas drafts and providing forces for home defence.

Composition

The following infantry battalions served in 220 Brigade during the war:
On 21 December 1917 orders were issued to break up 73rd Division. Disbandment began in January 1918 and its last elements disappeared on 8 April 1918.

Second World War

Origin

A new brigade under the title of 220th Independent Infantry Brigade was formed for service in the United Kingdom on 1 November 1940, largely from battalions of East Anglian regiments.

Service

After a brief spell attached to the East Anglian 18th Infantry Division, the 220th Brigade became part of Norfolk County Division on 24 December 1940. On 18 November 1941 the Norfolk County Division became 76th Infantry Division, a low establishment division intended for home defence. The 220th Independent Infantry Brigade was re-designated as the 220th Infantry Brigade.
On 1 September 1944, the 76th Divisional headquarters was disbanded and the 220th Brigade became part of 47th Infantry Division On 27 October 1944 the 47th Division's 141st Brigade was disbanded, and on 17 November the 220th Brigade was re-designated 141st Infantry Brigade, but with no London connection.

Order of battle

The following units served in 220 Brigade:
The following officers commanded 220 Brigade: