Description
Description: 56th Battalion (Riverina Regiment) – Sweetheart Badge – 1930 to 1942
Maker’s Name: Angus and Coote
Condition: Very Good Plus
Comments: 56th Battalion (Riverina Regiment) – Sweetheart Badge – 1930 to 1942. Complete with single pin.
In 1921, the battalion was re-formed as part of the Citizens Forces (later known as the Militia), drawing personnel from two previously existing units, the 2nd Battalion, 56th Infantry Regiment and the 5th Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment. In 1927, when territorial titles were adopted, the battalion became known as the “The Riverina Regiment”. It also received an official motto, that of Trutina Probatus at this time. In 1937, the battalion became allied to the Gloucestershire Regiment.
During World War II, the 56th Battalion undertook garrison duties in New South Wales and Western Australia, as part of the 5th Brigade of the 2nd Division.
It did not serve overseas, though, and was disbanded on 9 June 1944. After the war, the battalion was not reformed until July 1956 when it was re-raised as the 56th Reconnaissance Battalion (Riverina Regiment). It was disbanded again in September 1957. Along with the 7th/21st Australian Horse it formed the basis of the reformed 4th Battalion, which was raised in 1958 and later became part of the Royal New South Wales Regiment.
