165 Airborne Light Company RASC was redesigated as an Airborne unit in June 1944 to met a delivery gap during Airborne operations, as part of the Corps Troops for the Airborne Forward Delivery Airfield Group (AFDAG), RASC flown in to seized airfields.

Previously an Infantry Brigade Coy, it was based at Brentwood and gained Airborne insignia (Maroon berets and Pegasus flash) after a visit to 165 Airborne Lt Comp Coy HQ in August 1944, by Brig Bower (DA & QMG 1st Airborne Corps). The unit was equipped with Jeeps and Trailers and was air portable.

In late September, the unit flew into an airfield near Graves to practice their role in late September 1944, whilst the 1st Airborne took part in Op Market Garden. Returning to the UK in October 1944, the decimation of 1st Airborne Division meant there was no longer a realistic role for them and the unit was disbanded.

Commanding Officers

June-Oct 1944     Maj R Stephens

Record under construction - compiled with assistance from John White

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This unit's history is currently being researched.

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