2nd Field Squadron

2nd Field Squadron

Railway bridge destroyed by the 2nd Field Squadron, Australian Army Engineers at Junction Station, Palestine. AWM J00953

Shoulder patch

Brief History

Unlike the 2nd Field Company Engineers which was part of the 2nd Brigade AIF, the 2nd Field Squadron (or Imperial Field Squadron) was formed at Ferry Post in Egypt to provide Engineer support to the Australian Mounted Division in Egypt from early 1917. It consisted of four Troops (two Australian and two Imperial) and a Squadron Headquarters. The already existing 3rd Field Troop (later renamed C Troop) remained with the 3rd Light Horse Brigade, with the 4th Troop supporting the 4th Light Horse Brigade.

While they carried out normal engineering constructive and destructive works, much of their time was spent cleaning out bores, and ensuring suitable water was available for the units that they supported.

Thirteen men died while posted to this unit, primarily as a result of illness.

Unit Personnel

• Frank Erle Waters 8 Jun 1917 - 7 Jan 1919

Individual Honours

• 1 x Meritorious Service Medal
• 6 x Mentioned in Despatches
• 1 x Egyptian Order of the Nile, Fourth Class