Dukes attacked in Basra

Oct 27 2004 By Neil Atkinson, The Huddersfield Daily Examiner

The Dukes were mobilised from their base in Osnabruck, Germany, two weeks ago and flew to the Middle East for training before moving into Iraq.

Maj Bob Heron, assistant regimental secretary, said: "We have seen the pictures from Basra but we have had little information through.

"As they get fully organised, the lines of communication will improve and we will be able to keep families informed.

"The whole battalion is now operational, after each unit completed training in theatre."

News of the incidents in Basra came on the day the Army Board was due to meet to discuss the future of the regiment.

The Dukes are one of a number of regiments threatened with the axe under Ministry of Defence cuts.