by R. a. E. C. B. Edwards Lt Col (Author)

During the Second World War, the Essex Yeomanry served with distinction as part of the Royal Artillery, split into several regiments that saw extensive action across Europe and the Middle East. In the European theatre, the primary units were the 147th (Essex Yeomanry) Field Regiment, RA and the 104th (Essex Yeomanry) Regiment, RHA.

The 147th Field Regiment played a central role in the Allied advance across Northwest Europe. Landing on D-Day, 1944, as part of the 8th Armoured Brigade, the regiment was equipped with Sexton self-propelled 25-pounder guns, providing mobile fire support for the assault. Acting as a spearhead unit, it fought through France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, supporting infantry and armour alike. On 21 November 1944, the 147th became the first Royal Artillery unit to fire into Germany, marking a symbolic and strategic milestone in the campaign.