Operation Pamphlet

Operation Pamphlet: A Convoy of Courage and Concern

Imagine a convoy, not just any convoy, but one that carried the hopes and fears of an entire nation across vast oceans during World War II. Operation Pamphlet was such a mission, transporting the 9th Australian Division back to Australia from Egypt in early 1943.

The Decision to Return

Why did they decide to bring them home? The decision wasn’t made lightly. Manpower shortages, concerns over soldier morale, and a strategic need to concentrate forces were just some of the factors that led to this pivotal operation. The Australian Government requested the division’s return on October 17, 1942, but it took months for the British Government to agree.

The Convoy’s Journey

Once the decision was made, the journey began in earnest. The 9th Division embarked in late January and the convoy started on February 4. Allied naval task forces protected them across the Indian Ocean and along the Australian coast, ensuring no losses from enemy action. This operation marked a significant end to the Second Australian Imperial Force’s role in the Western Desert Campaign.

Preparations and Challenges

The division had played an important role in several campaigns against German, Italian, and Vichy French forces. But now, they were returning home due to various challenges, including shipping shortages and a desire to address tropical disease losses among the troops. The Australian Government sought advice from Blamey and MacArthur on whether heavy equipment could remain in the Middle East, but supplies would be sourced from American resources.

The Convoy’s Formation

Operation Pamphlet was designated for the movement of the 9th Division. Four large troop ships were allocated by the Royal Navy, including the converted ocean liners Aquitania, Île de France, Nieuw Amsterdam, Queen Mary, and HMS Queen of Bermuda. Each ship was armed with anti-aircraft guns and two 6-inch guns to protect against Japanese warships and submarines.

Embarking Troops

The Australian Imperial Force began embarking troops on January 24, 1943. The convoy sailed through the northern Red Sea and rendezvoused near Massawa in Eritrea. The ships were loaded at different ports, with Queen Mary being the first to complete loading, followed by Aquitania, Île de France, Nieuw Amsterdam, and Queen of Bermuda.

Protecting the Convoy

The convoy faced its most dangerous stage traveling through the eastern Indian Ocean. To counter this threat, the convoy’s escort was reinforced by Force A of the British Eastern Fleet, comprising battleships HMS Warspite, Resolution, and Revenge, as well as the light cruiser HMS Mauritius and six destroyers.

Arrival in Australia

The ships arrived at Fremantle on February 18 with high morale among the troops. Nieuw Amsterdam and Queen of Bermuda berthed in Fremantle Harbour, while the other three troop ships dropped anchor at Gage Roads. The Western Australian members of the 9th Division disembarked, and the ships loaded supplies and mail.

Final Escort

The convoy sailed from Fremantle on February 20 with tight security measures in place due to Japanese submarines off the coast. The escort was strengthened by Jacob van Heemskerck and Tjerk Hiddes, as well as Task Group 44.3 comprising the heavy cruiser HMAS Australia and American destroyers USS Bagley, Helm, and Henley.

Homecoming

The ships arrived in Sydney on February 25 with a grand welcome from the people of New South Wales. Queen Mary anchored off Bradleys Head, while Aquitania berthed at Woolloomooloo. Curtin officially announced the division’s return to Australia in a speech delivered to the House of Representatives.

Aftermath

The ships involved in Operation Pamphlet rapidly departed for other duties. Queen Mary arrived at Gourock, Scotland, with 8,326 military personnel on March 16, while Aquitania completed its voyage to New York City on May 4. The 9th Australian Division saw action against Japanese forces during the Salamaua–Lae campaign in September 1943.

Operation Pamphlet was more than just a convoy; it was a symbol of resilience and determination. The 9th Australian Division’s journey home was fraught with challenges but ultimately successful, ensuring their safe return to Australia and contributing significantly to future operations in the Pacific.