Action at Badama Post: The Third Afghan War, 1919

During the 3rd Afghan War in 1919, the Afghans invaded British India, resulting in the loss of a 20 Sqn RAF aircraft. The crew was rescued by members of the Kurram Militia and 22 Battery Motor Machine Gun Service, with two airmen saved at the cost of an Indian Militiaman and an unknown number of Afghan tribesmen. This book explores the background to the conflict, the Kurram Militia, the squadron's history, and the lives of the key players, focusing on the action at Badama Post.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 14 June 2019
Publisher: Casemate Publishers

The 3rd Afghan War in 1919 marked a significant chapter in the long history of British involvement in Afghanistan and the North-West Frontier. It was a campaign that resulted in the loss of over 1,000 British and Indian troops. This is the story of an untold action during this lesser-known war, involving an aircraft crash and rescue. On a routine mission to investigate a gathering of tribesmen, an aircraft of 20 Sqn RAF went missing. The crew was successfully rescued, thanks to the efforts of the Kurram Militia and 22 Battery Motor Machine Gun Service. This all-arms operation involved the sacrifice of an Indian Militiaman and an unknown number of Afghan tribesmen to save the lives of two airmen.

The 22 Battery of the Motor Machine Gun Service, who had volunteered to serve in France, underwent a rigorous selection process and often spent significant amounts of their own money to attend interviews. Their deployment to India and the North-West Frontier came as a sudden change of scenery, exposing them to the harsh conditions of the region. This book delves into the background of the conflict, the Kurram Militia, the history of the squadron, and the lives of the key players. While this was not the only action the 22 Battery engaged in during the 3rd Afghan War, the action at Badama Post in late July 1919 stands out as a significant moment in their experience.

The account of A/Sjt Ernest 'Bill Macro, who was in charge of the section of 22 Battery dispatched to Badama Post, provides a firsthand account of the events. It sheds light on the bravery and resilience of the men who faced the challenges of the Afghan terrain and the enemy. The stories of the other men who participated in the action at Badama Pos are also included, adding depth and perspective to the narrative.

The 3rd Afghan War was a complex and multifaceted conflict that involved multiple countries and factions. The action at Badama Post, however, represents a small but significant chapter in the history of this war. It showcases the bravery and dedication of the British and Indian troops, as well as the local militia and tribesmen who came to their aid. This story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made in the name of peace and security and the importance of remembering the contributions of those who have served in conflicts past.

Weight: 510g
Dimension: 232 x 166 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781612007595