Description
Dhofar Clasp General Service Medal Full Size
In 1965 the mountain tribesmen of Dhofar, a province of Oman, rose in revolt against the regime of Sultan Sa’ib bin Taimur. The revolt worsened in 1967 when the British left the adjacent State of Aden. The new communist government in Yemen provided an important base for the rebels.
By 1970 it was clear that the Sultan would lose the war unless some action was taken. On 23 July 1970, the Sultan’s son staged a coup which provided the required change of direction. Some of the previous Sultan’s excesses were removed, and the new leader expanded his armed forces and requested British assistance.
The British Special Air Service (SAS) provided training for his local forces, the Royal Artillery provided mortar locating radars and a sound ranging base at Salalah, the Royal Engineers provided military and civil engineering, and RAF officers provided the backbone of the new Sultan’s air force. The Royal Air Force Regiment (RAF Regiment) provided a continuous presence at the MOB in Salalah from 1970 to 1976. In addition to these contribution, many British officers were seconded to the Sultan’s Armed Forces (SAF). As well as the British contribution, Jordan and Iran also provided assistance.
During this period, the British forces suffered 24 killed and 55 wounded.The qualifying period for service was between 1 October 1969 and 30 September 1976.
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