Caribbean descent hero soldiers who bravely served in various armed conflicts, including WW1 and WW2, are set to receive recognition through their own dedicated Memorial Day. The initiative, led by the British West India Regiments Heritage Trust, has gained momentum with Lewisham Council officially designating October 26th as British West Indies Regiment Day.
This move by the council marks a significant milestone in acknowledging the service and sacrifices made by Caribbean soldiers, emphasizing their enduring contribution to British history. The decision not only symbolizes recognition but also validates years of advocacy to honor these forgotten servicemen. It signifies a commitment to inclusive remembrance, historical justice, and the proper teaching and respect of Black British military history.
The Trust’s Chair, Paul Chambers, highlighted the historical ties between the Caribbean and Britain, particularly in maritime communities like Lewisham and Deptford, where many Caribbean men settled. He noted that recruitment from Jamaica and Barbados by the Royal Navy and the employment of Caribbean crew on merchant ships using the Thames further solidified these connections.
Among the notable figures who enlisted during WW1 were Norman Washington Manley and his brother Douglas Roy Manley, both serving in the Royal Field Artillery. While Douglas tragically perished in service and was buried in Belgium, Norman survived and went on to become a prominent statesman in Jamaica. Their legacy of service and commitment to their country remains ingrained in Jamaica’s national memory.
The British West India Regiments Heritage Trust, a non-profit organization, is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich military heritage of the West Indies. Through remembrance, education, and advocacy, the Trust ensures that the stories of West Indian soldiers and their descendants are never forgotten. This initiative unites the legacies of the West Indies Regiments and the British West Indies Regiment, honoring their contributions from 1795 to 1962.