British Empire (Indian Ocean): Mauritius Regiment. A King's Crown 'Theatre Made' sand-cast brass cap badge, circa 1942-46

The reverse of insignia complete with the two pierced post fittings - one shorter than the other (a/f) and exactly as issued

This is a World War II theatre made item of insignia from 'East Africa', specifically Kenya Colony. The insignia was sourced by a long time Scottish expatriate who served & resided in Kenya during the 1940's-1950's

Mauritius Regiment: During the Second World War an estimated 6185 Mauritians served in locally formed regiments. Prior to 1939, the Mauritius Territorial Force - formed in 1934 - comprised coastal artillery and infantry units. After the outbreak of 'Global War' in 1939, the Mauritius Territorial Force was expanded, with the infantry comprising two battalions. The infantry of the Mauritius Territorial Force were restyled & renamed the Mauritius Regiment in 1942. Originally the terms of engagement were to be for 'Home Defence'. However, the 1st Battalion with a strength of 1,000 men subsequently embarked for overseas service and was landed in Diego Suarez, to relieve Imperial Forces who had invaded and seized the island from Vichy France in the 1942 Battle of Madagascar. Shortly after landing the battalion mutinied due to protests at their conditions and the breaking of their guarantee they would not leave Mauritius

The Mauritius Regiment suffered the loss of 45 x 'All-Ranks' personnel who died during the Second World War, with at least one member MR/2629 Pte. H. Khodabocus, recorded as having died in Kenya Colony on 18 August 1945, and who lies buried in a Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery located in Nairobi, Kenya

An extremely rare item of Second World War era British Empire insignia

Condition: VF

Code: 23971