Mark Forsdike – författare

During the Second World War, few units earned as much praise as the 142nd Regiment, Royal Armoured Corps. Formed in 1941 by converting the 7th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment, into an armoured unit, 142 RAC carried forward the traditions, loyalty, and pride of its infantry origins, earning the affectionate nickname the ‘Suffolk Tank Regiment.’ Although never officially designated as part of the Suffolk Regiment, the men of 142 RAC never wavered in their allegiance, proudly wearing their ancestor’s badge and keeping the regiment informed of their exploits.Their war was one of support. The Regiment’s squadrons were deployed in fragmented roles, backing infantry across Tunisia and Italy, often in crucial but overlooked operations. Despite their vital contributions, post-war histories scarcely mention their actions, leaving fewer than ten firsthand accounts and limited photographs of their service. Yet their bravery did not go unnoticed at the time, earning the largest number of gallantry awards of any Suffolk Regiment element and the admiration of Canadian allies during the breakthrough of the Hitler Line in May 1944.This long-overdue account brings the story of 142 RAC back into the light, honoring a unit whose spirit, dedication, and familial pride defined their service. From the dusty battlefields of North Africa to the rugged landscapes of Italy, this book celebrates the men of 142 RAC—the forgotten heroes who ensured the success of those they supported and left a legacy of courage and devotion that the Suffolk Regiment continues to cherish.

Between December 1943 and August 1944, Second Suffolk, as part of the 5th (Indian) Division, played a key role opposing the Japanese in Burma and later at the critical battle at Imphal. The odds could not have been higher or the challenges greater.The Japanese had already earned an awesome reputation as a formidable and ruthless enemy who could only be described as fanatical. The rugged jungle terrain, over which the Battalion had to fight, was tough and unforgiving and pushed all ranks to the limits of their physical and mental endurance. Against them too was the harsh tropical climate and the extremes of the monsoon season. The combination of these three factors called for the highest standards of leadership and discipline.Supplies too were often not forthcoming but despite these difficulties and a lack of appreciation of their efforts in the press at home, morale of the stolid regular Suffolk soldier and his newer drafted comrades, always remained high as they learned to fight their enemy in the way that he fought him.For over seventy-five years their story has remained largely forgotten and untold but, now drawing on previously unpublished accounts of those who served there, together with unpublished photographs, this book describes the Battalion’s outstanding service during the Burma Campaign.