Discover the Valor of the 18th, 19th, 20th, and 22nd Battalions of The Durham Light Infantry in the Great War

When the Great War erupted in 1914, the world witnessed a conflict of unprecedented scale and brutality. Among the numerous regiments and battalions that fought valiantly in this monumental event, the 18th, 19th, 20th, and 22nd Battalions of The Durham Light Infantry served as an epitome of courage, resilience, and sacrifice.

The Formation of the Battalions

The Durham Light Infantry originated from the merging of several county regiments, and throughout their history, they earned a reputation for their unwavering dedication to duty. When war broke out, these battalions emerged as a fierce force on the frontlines, ready to face the horrors of battle.

The 18th Battalion

The 18th Battalion, also known as the 1st County of Durham, was raised in September 1914. Comprised of patriotic volunteers, many of whom were miners from the region, this battalion quickly distinguished itself on the battlefield. From the Battle of Loos to the Battle of the Somme, the 18th Battalion exhibited incredible bravery, often operating in the face of overwhelming odds.

Durham Pals: 18th, 19th, 20th and 22nd Battalions of the Durham Light Infantry in the Great War

by John Sheen(Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	21197 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	749 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

With a deep sense of camaraderie and esprit de corps, the soldiers of the 18th Battalion forged an indomitable spirit that led them to victory in several pivotal engagements. Their determination and sacrifice stand as a testament to the unwavering spirit of the Durham Light Infantry.

The 19th Battalion

Formed in September 1915, the 19th Battalion of The Durham Light Infantry emerged as a "Bantam" battalion. Composed of men who fell short of the minimum height requirement, this unique group of soldiers proved that size did not dictate their courage.

Despite facing initial skepticism, the 19th Battalion's tenacity and fierce fighting skills ultimately silenced any doubts about their capabilities. From the Battle of the Ancre to the Third Battle of Ypres, this battalion left an indelible mark through their resilience and unwavering dedication to the cause.

The 20th Battalion

Raised in November 1915, the 20th Battalion, also referred to as the 1st Tyneside Scottish, was predominantly composed of men from the mining communities of Tyneside and Durham. Their rich mining heritage lent itself to their tactical prowess, especially in underground warfare. The 20th Battalion significantly contributed to operations beneath the trenches, employing their expertise to undermine enemy positions and disrupt their defensive structures.

Throughout major offensives like the Battle of the Somme and the Battle of Passchendaele, the 20th Battalion played a crucial role in achieving strategic objectives. Their remarkable bravery and adaptability in treacherous conditions exemplify the finest qualities of the Durham Light Infantry.

The 22nd Battalion

The 22nd Battalion, often referred to as the 3rd Durham Pals, originated in September 1914. Comprising a diverse group of volunteers, this battalion included men from various backgrounds, occupations, and social statuses. Their unity and shared sense of purpose fortified them against the challenges of war.

Throughout the conflict, the 22nd Battalion faced numerous trials, including grueling trench warfare, relentless shelling, and the heart-wrenching loss of comrades. From the Battle of Arras to the Hundred Days Offensive, their unwavering determination and resilience shone through, earning them a distinguished place in the annals of military history.

The Legacy and Sacrifice

The valiant actions of the 18th, 19th, 20th, and 22nd Battalions of The Durham Light Infantry in the Great War left an indelible mark on both the regiment's history and the collective memory of the nation. Their unwavering dedication and selfless sacrifice, often in the face of unimaginable adversity, serve as a poignant reminder of the true cost of war.

Today, we honor their memory and acknowledge the debt we owe to these brave heroes. Their legacy lives on, not only in the historical records but also in the values of courage, resilience, and unity that continue to inspire us.

Durham Pals: 18th, 19th, 20th and 22nd Battalions of the Durham Light Infantry in the Great War

by John Sheen(Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	21197 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	749 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

A history of four battalions of the Durham Light Infantry raised in the Country during the First World War. The 18th (Pals) were the first troops of Kitcheners new army to come under fire, when the Germans bombarded Hartlepool in December 1914. The 19th were raised as Bantams and the 20th (Wearside) were raised by the Sunderland Recruiting Committee. The 22nd, the last raised became a pioneer Battalion but fought as infantry through much of 1918. The book covers raising, training and active service of the Battalions. The 18th were in action on 1 July 1916 when they supported the Leeds and Bradford Pals. After fighting at Messines in June 1917 the 20th went to the Italian front. After losing its Bantams in 1917, the 19th Battalion fought on and distinguished itself in the advance in Flanders in the latter months of 1918. The 22nd Battalion had such a hard time in March and April 1918 that it was rebuilt and again practically wiped out before being disbanded in June 1918.