219th Brigade (United Kingdom)


The 219th Brigade was a Home Service formation of the British Army during World War I and World War II.

First World War

Formation and Service

The 219th Brigade 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.
73 Division assembled around Blackpool and then in January 1917 moved to Hertfordshire and Essex to join Southern Army. 219 Brigade was stationed at Danbury and Maldon in Essex, moving to Southend in October. Its role was training, particularly in improving the physique of the men who were being prepared for active service.
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.

Order of Battle

The following infantry battalions served in the Brigade during World War I:
The following officers commanded 219 Bde in World War I:

Formation and Service

In World War II a new brigade under the title of 219th Independent Infantry Brigade , was formed for service in the United Kingdom on 26 October 1940, composed of infantry battalions from Southern England. The Brigade was attached to divisions of XII Corps – the 43rd Infantry Division, its duplicate the 45th Infantry Division, and the 44th Infantry Division at various times. On 1 December 1941 the brigade was re-designated the 219th Independent Infantry Brigade. The brigade was disbanded on 11 December 1942, its battalions being converted into Medium Regiments of the Royal Artillery.

Order of Battle

The following units served in 219 Brigade:
The following officers commanded 219 Brigade in World War II: