sentences:  Between April and October, the brigade formed part of the Allied garrison holding the vital port after it was surrounded.During this time, they held the western side of the defences, before taking part in fighting around an area that became known as The Salient in May.The 2/24th Battalion was heavily engaged during the fighting around Bianca, being reduced to half strength before the rest of the 26th Brigade, with reinforcements from the 18th Brigade restored the situation.