Following the outbreak of World War One, the British government initially refused to allow black West Indians to join up. However, as the conflict worsened, King George V instructed the War Office to recruit volunteers. 15,600 were enlisted, arranged into 11 battalions, and the British West Indies Regiment was born 1,500 of them never returned home.

The contribution of Black British soldiers, as well as those from the Caribbean, Africa, and other colonies, in both World Wars, and more recent wars is an often underappreciated but crucial aspect of British history. These men and women served with bravery and distinction, often under harsh conditions and against a backdrop of racial discrimination, Prejudice, and bullying, yet despite these challenges they fought and served with courage and dedication. Their stories are a testament to the power of resilience and the need for recognition and justice in military history.  

Their roles spanned from combat, logistics, and medical support, and their stories, although once side-lined, are now receiving the recognition they deserve. 

The first black colonel, retired Colonel Andy Allen said he spent 30 years in the British Army he never realised the heritage of Caribbean soldiers, we’re talking about soldiers who came from the Caribbean to fight for the king, who actually didn’t know even about Great Britain, but they were part of the British Empire and wanted to do their bit. 

Historians are working to ensure these stories are integrated into the broader narrative of British military history. The contribution of Black soldiers was essential to the Allied victories in both World Wars. Despite facing institutional racial harassment, and inequality, they fought with courage and dedication. 

For the British military to succeed in such worrying times, we do need to draw on the very best talent that is out there. But not only do we need to draw on the very best talent we also need to recruit from different corners of society to ensure the Army, Navy and Air Force are a true representative of British society for 2025 and beyond. 

On the 10th of November 2024 at The New Testament Church of God, 173 Wednesfield Road, Wolverhampton WV10 0EN a memorial service was held to honour the memory of all those soldiers who lost their lives in the two world wars together with subsequent conflicts, it was also to acknowledge current veterans for their unrecognised service in the armed forces. 

The service was led by Bishop Paul Thomas a veteran himself, in attendance were Martin Levermore MBE Deputy Lieutenant, Donald Campbell and his colleagues from The Forgotten Generation and members from the Home Office Windrush Engagement Team.  

If you have previously served in the Armed Forces and would like support or guidance concerning the Windrush Compensation Scheme please call Sian Computers on 01902 651698 or Email Siancomputers.comm.init. [email protected]