_604 North-West Europe 1940 "During the winter of 1939 to 1940 large numbers of British troops arrived in France. Many of the Camerons, Gordons, and Seaforths were sent to help defend the Maginot Line (a series of fortifications near the border between France and Germany). The Highland soldiers were forward of the French fortifications, meaning they were in the front line when the Germans attacked in May 1940. The Highlanders withstood heavy attacks, but were ordered to fall back when the French forces retreated. Several disastrous weeks followed as the French government collapsed and the British withdrew towards the coast." Action TEXT "During the winter of 1939 to 1940 large numbers of British troops arrived in France. Many of the Camerons, Gordons, and Seaforths were sent to help defend the Maginot Line (a series of fortifications near the border between France and Germany). The Highland soldiers were forward of the French fortifications, meaning they were in the front line when the Germans attacked in May 1940. The Highlanders withstood heavy attacks, but were ordered to fall back when the French forces retreated. Several disastrous weeks followed as the French government collapsed and the British withdrew towards the coast." "" Battle honours "" Battle honours "" Battle honours "Men of 2nd Seaforth Highlanders with a captured German anti-tank gun, May 1940." image/jpeg IWM (F 4625) Image 49.15375499476016 7.411931480920306