Changes in command in Syria

On 18 June 1941, General Lavarack, the former 7th Australian Division commander, with the 1st Australian Corps headquarters, took command in Syria, from Damascus to the coast. General Blamey became Deputy Commander-in-Chief, Middle East. Major-General Allen became the new 7th Australian Division commander. Major-General Everts, the 6th (British) Division commander took over all British and Australian troops south and southwest of Damascus. The new command structure was in place to oversee the third phase of the campaign, which ran from 23 June to 12 July 1941. This is based on the account in Vol.II of the Official History.