The division's formation sign was crossed spears on a porter's headband, in black (sometimes white) on a yellow shield.

In August the organisation was slightly changed, with supporting arms which had previously been distributed between the brigades being controlled centrally by the division HQ.

The 82nd (West African) Division (supported by 28th Anti-tank Regiment RIA and 33rd Mountain Artillery Regiment RIA) then crossed a steep and jungle-covered mountain range to converge with the British 81st (West African) Division on Myohaung near the mouth of the Kaladan River.

This move forced the Japanese to evacuate the Mayu peninsula which they had held for almost four years and retreat south along the coast.

As they retreated, troops from the 3rd Commando Brigade and units of the 25th Indian Infantry Division landed in inlets and chaungs ahead of them.

Caught between the troops landing from the sea and the 82nd (West African) Division, the Japanese suffered many casualties.

By March, the division captured Dalet Chaung and the strategic supply base of Tamandu, in coordination with Indian units.

The 2nd (Gold Coast) Brigade based at Letmauk subsequently became the target of intense Japanese counter-attacks, suffering many casualties.