The Salamander’s Brood

The story of General Freyberg’s Divisional Protective Troop, so crucial to the success of the North African campaign in World War Two, is told for the first time by the one living participant. Churchill called Freyberg ‘The Salamander’ and his Protective Troop was immediately dubbed ‘The Salamander’s Brood’.  During the early chaotic months in North Africa, Freyberg decided, over the opposition of other military commanders, to direct the 2nd NZ Division from a forward mobile tactical headquarters – his own tank, with a small protective troop of other tanks.

Direct radio communications from his command tank to his Division were key to Freyberg’s success, and author Watty McEwen was his wireless operator through most of the North African campaign. His is a fascinating insight into battles nearly lost to Field Marshall Rommel and a uniquely close observation of Bernard Freyberg, general and fellow tank crewman.