Lebanon. May 1942. During the recent European winter specially selected units were formed from ...

Lebanon. May 1942. During the recent European winter specially selected units were formed from the AIF in Syria for training in the use of skis. The ski school was situated above Bcharre in the Lebanon Ranges at 6500 feet. Although the training was carried out in a picturesque environment, it entailed considerable hardship for men not fully acclimatised to the harsh conditions. The formation of reconnaissance and fighting patrols was the objective and the training covered bivouacking above the snow line, tactics in offensive and defensive patrols, signalling and intelligence duties. Troops parade in white ski suits and caps armed with skis and stocks, in front of the 1st Australian Corps Ski School. At the left background are the snow-capped Lebanon Ranges, the exercise ground for ski lessons.