We Were There

World War Two Background

Men and women from all parts of the British Empire played a significant role in helping to defeat the totalitarian regimes of Germany, Italy and Japan.

Some 372,500 African troops fought in East Africa and Burma. The Indian Army (including modern day Pakistan and Bangladesh), provided the world’s largest volunteer army with 2.5 million men. The Commonwealth Navies provided essential operational support worldwide, as did 5,800 West Indians who served in the RAF.

The fight to restore freedom and democracy in Europe and battles to recapture those parts of the British Empire which had been conquered by the Japanese, posed a dilemma to many participants. Many people did not want a return to the pre war imperial status and a few even joined the enemy. Nevertheless, a large number of local personnel from all parts of the Empire volunteered their services with many making the ultimate sacrifice.

Together Poster: Uniformed men from Canada, Britain, New Zealand, Australia, West Africa, and India standing to attention, with shouldered rifles whilst the Union Jack flag flies in the background.
Courtesy of: Imperial War Museum (IWM PST 3158)