DIE GEALLIEERDE BESTETTING VAN MADAGASKAR IN 1942 (DEEL 3): DIE TOETREDE VAN DIE SUID-AFRIKAANSE LANDMAGTE EN DIE BESTTING VAN TANANARIVE

Abstract

The previous articles in this series dealt firstly with the background to and occupation by Allied forces of Diego Suarez in May 1942, and secondly with the early role of the South African Air Force in that operation. This article deals mainly with the South African groundforces which were shipped to Madagascar in June 1942. The compilation of the 7th South African Infantry Brigade and its early role on the island is discussed, followed in turn by the strategic planning of Operation Stream-line-Jane and the tactical execution of Operations Esme, Tamper, Stream and line. As the occupation of the capital city, Tananarive, did not lead to the expected surrender of all Vichy French forces on the island, the Allied operation had to be continued. That will be dealt with in a next article.