Commonwealth Forces in World War II

The British Commonwealth and Empire mobilised over 8 million men and women for the war effort, drawn from every corner of the globe. Their contribution was essential to Allied victory, yet their stories are often overshadowed in Western narratives of the conflict.

India provided the largest volunteer army in history — over 2.5 million soldiers who fought in North Africa, Italy, Burma, and Malaya. The 4th Indian Division was one of the most decorated formations of the war, fighting from the Western Desert to Monte Cassino. Indian soldiers earned 31 Victoria Crosses during the conflict.

African soldiers from East and West Africa fought in the Burma campaign and East Africa. The Royal West African Frontier Force and the King's African Rifles served with distinction in challenging jungle conditions that tested endurance to its limits.

Australian, Canadian, and New Zealand forces made critical contributions across every theatre. Australians fought in North Africa, Greece, and the Pacific. Canadians stormed Juno Beach on D-Day and liberated the Netherlands. New Zealanders served at El Alamein and in Italy. Together, these forces represented the truly global nature of the Allied war effort.