Soldiers of the Caribbean
The National Army Museum in London is commemorating the role of West Indian servicemen and women in the British Army with a new exhibition
Delivered in partnership with the West India Committee and supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the West Indian Soldier exhibition at the National Army Museum (NAM) highlights the little-known military heritage shared between Britain and the Caribbean. Encompassing more than 300 years of history, it tells the story of the role of West Indian servicemen and women in the British Army.
The exhibition also examines the experiences of British soldiers and officers in the Caribbean and their combined service in various military campaigns.
Visitors can learn about key moments in the history of the West India Regiments, including the nature of their recruitment and service and the unique position that these soldiers occupy in both the UK and Caribbean. West Indian military service has a long tradition dating back to the colonial era but also the World Wars, as well as continuing deployments across the world today. Exhibition highlights include the Victoria Cross of Lieutenant Frank de Pass, the colours of the 4th West India Regiment, the war diary of the British West Indies Regiment and a rare portrait of a private soldier of the 8th West India Regiment that was painted in 1804. Entry to West Indian Soldier is free but the NAM is asking visitors to book a time slot online before visiting the museum. The exhibition runs until 31 October 2021. For more information visit: www.nam.ac.uk