The Long Range Desert Group (LRDG), nicknamed ‘Ghost Patrol’ by opposing Italian forces, was formed in Cairo in 1940 and often operated in secret behind enemy lines.

The appeal follows the death in August of Jack Mann, the last surviving veteran of the LRDG, at the age of 100.

Born Zacharia Zuckerman in Cairo in 1925, he altered his age to enlist while still a teenager and was recruited by the LRDG as a radio operator.

A talented linguist and wireless operator, he was recruited into the LRDG and subsequently served with other wartime special forces units.  He later served with 21 SAS.

The LDRG were founded after explorer and British Army officer Major Ralph Bagnold proposed the creation of a small, fast-moving reconnaissance force capable of travelling vast distances behind enemy lines in the deserts of Egypt and Libya.

The unit became renowned for its ability to navigate across apparently featureless desert and operate hundreds of miles from conventional forces, gathering vital........

© Norwich Evening News