Inaugural British West Indies Regiment Day marked in Lewisham

The inaugural British West Indies Regiment Day was held at Lewisham Civic Suite, after Lewisham became the first Council to recognise British West Indies Regiment Day, when a cross-party supported motion passed last year.

The event included ex-servicemen, current armed forces personal and delegates from the British West Indies Regiment Day Heritage Trust, who talked about the history of those of Caribbean decent and their contribution to Britain's armed forces.

Taking place during Black History Month, BWIR Day represents an important commitment to educate, remember and recognise the contribution of the British West Indies Regiment. Over 15,000 men in the Caribbean volunteered to serve in the First World War, they served under conditions of discrimination, the Memorial Day aims to finally offer these men the recognition they deserve. 

Paul Chambers, Chair, British West India Regiments Heritage Trust, said: "BWIR Day is about ensuring that the service and sacrifice of the men of the British West Indies Regiment are remembered as part of our shared military history. We want to take this history beyond traditional commemorative and heritage spaces and into the communities whose histories are connected to it. From conversations in Lewisham to remembrance at Seaford, this is about connecting people, place and history – and ensuring these stories are carried forward to future generations."

The Speaker of Lewisham, Cllr Aaron Regisford, who spoke at the event said: “111 years ago the British West Indies Regiment was formed, and we are proud in Lewisham to be the first council to commit to remembering their legacy. We want to ensure the contributions of those who served are remembered and recognised for years to come.”

Find out more about British West Indies Regiment Day, or see historical images and learn more about the history of the regiment on the Imperial War Museum website.