Bri
tish Military Trivia The British military has a rich and varied history, with many interesting and little-known facts about its successes, failures, and innovations. Here are just a few fascinating tidbits about the British armed forces:
1. The first army-list was published in 1760 The British army has been publishing army lists since 1760, detailing the officers and units serving at the time. These lists provide a fascinating glimpse into the makeup of the army and the men who served in it. Today, army lists are still published but are only available online.
2. The Battle of Waterloo was won with British tent-pegs The Battle of Waterloo in 1815 saw the defeat of Napoleon Bonaparte and the end of the Napoleonic Wars. One of the lesser-known factors in the battle's success was that the British soldiers had superior tent-pegs, which meant they were able to construct stronger and more secure positions from which to fight.
3. The first recorded use of tanks was by the British The first tanks used in warfare were used by the British during the First World War. Mark I tanks were used in the Battle of the Somme in 1916 and were a significant innovation in the way wars were fought. The tanks were initially unreliable and slow, but they proved highly effective in breaking the stalemate on the Western Front.
4. The first full-scale parachute jump was made by a British officer Captain Albert Berry made the first full-scale parachute jump from a plane in 191
2. The jump was relatively successfull, but by the time Berry landed on the ground, he did so rather inelegantly and sprained his ankle.
5. The British used pigeons in both world wars to carry messages Pigeons were used by the British military during both world wars to carry messages between units. The birds were highly effective, with a successful delivery rate of over 95%. Their use was eventually phased out with the advent of radio communications.
6. The VC, Britain's highest award for bravery, has been awarded 1,358 times The Victoria Cross is Britain's highest award for bravery in the face of the enemy. Since its introduction in 1856 during the Crimean War, it has been awarded 1,358 times. Only 13 have been awarded since the Second World War.
7. The SAS was founded during the Second World War The Special Air Service (SAS) was founded in the Western Desert during the Second World War. Its role was to conduct behind-the-lines operations and sabotage, with a particular focus on hitting German airfields. The unit became famous for its daring missions behind enemy lines and has since become a mainstay of the British military.
8. The Falklands War saw the last British cavalry charge The Falklands War in 1982 saw the last ever cavalry charge by the British army. The charge was carried out by the 2nd Battalion, The Scots Guards, on a position known as Wireless Ridge. The attack was successful, and the position was captured, but it was also costly, with many casualties. In conclusion, the British military has a long and interesting history, with many lesser-known facts adding to the fascinating stories we already know. From the first tank to the last cavalry charge, each of these tidbits adds to the complex tapestry that is the British military.