Allied Forces
Originally a ground force of two battalions had been allocated to the landings, but this was reduced to one on confirmation that the Germans had not yet garrisoned the area. The troops mainly comprised elements of the 2nd Canadian Infantry Brigade, under Brigadier A. E. Potts, with 3 Field Company, RCE attached, a party of Norwegian servicemen based in the United Kingdom. There was demolition and logistic support from British Army units including a detachment from the Kent Fortress Royal Engineers, a unit with demolition experience. This was a total force of 645 All Ranks, including 527 Canadians.
The liner RMS Empress of Canada acted as the troopship, escorted by Force K: two Royal Navy cruisers, HMS Nigeria (flagship) and Aurora and three destroyers: HMS Icarus, Anthony and Antelope; Philip Vian remained in command. The force sailed on August 19.
Read more about this topic: Operation Gauntlet
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