It is notable as the battle for which the first Military Cross was awarded to an airman of the Royal Air Force.
The intent of the patrol was to deter attacks on the air station and to reassure the local population.
[1] As they moved through Al Waki market the civilian population suddenly dispersed and the area went quiet.
At the inquest into Leading Aircraftman (LAC) Beard's death, the section commander, Sergeant Robert Williams said that "..It all changed in a matter of seconds; the gunshots started and they opened fire on us from our left hand side.
at one point the Gunner on a WIMK Was shot in the chest, only stopped by his ballistic vest, He was knocked off the WMIK.