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Middlesex Regiment

The Middlesex Regiment (Duke of Cambridge's Own) was an regiment of the , formed in 1881 under the by amalgamating the 57th (West Middlesex) Regiment of Foot and the 77th (East Middlesex) Regiment of Foot, along with associated militia and volunteer units. It initially comprised two regular battalions, which expanded to four regular and four territorial battalions by 1908, reflecting its role as a key unit recruited primarily from the historic county of . The regiment's predecessors traced their lineage to the 18th century, with the 57th Regiment earning the enduring nickname "Die-Hards" for its tenacious defense at the during the in 1811, where it suffered heavy casualties but held its ground against overwhelming French forces. Throughout its existence, the Middlesex Regiment participated in numerous major conflicts, including the Second Boer War (1899–1902), where it saw action in ; the First World War (1914–1918), raising nearly 50 battalions to fronts such as the Western Front, Salonika, , and , with notable engagements at the Battle of St Quentin in 1918; the Second World War (1939–1945), fighting in campaigns including in 1944; and the (1950–1953). These deployments highlighted its versatility, from to amphibious assaults, and it accumulated numerous honors for valor and service. By the mid-20th century, as part of broader reorganizations, the regiment underwent reductions, with its four regular battalions disbanded to two in 1922 and the remaining two amalgamated into one by 1948. It was finally amalgamated on 31 December 1966 with the Queen's Royal Surrey Regiment, Queen's Own Buffs, The , and the to form The , ending its independent existence while preserving its traditions within the modern .

Formation and Early History

Origins in the 18th Century

The 57th (West Middlesex) Regiment of Foot

The 57th Regiment of Foot was established in 1755 during the early stages of the Seven Years' War, when Colonel John Arabin, previously of the 2nd Irish Horse, was commissioned by royal authority to raise a new infantry regiment in the counties of Somerset and Gloucester. This formation occurred as part of a broader expansion of the British Army to meet wartime demands, with Arabin serving as the regiment's first colonel and overseeing its organization from its inception. Initially designated the 59th Regiment of Foot, it was structured as a standard line infantry unit comprising ten companies. The regiment's early administrative foundations were shaped by the British Army's 1751 royal warrant, which standardized numbering for infantry regiments to promote clarity and in . Raised after this , the unit entered service as the 59th but was promptly renumbered the 57th in 1756 following the disbandment of the 50th and 51st Regiments of Foot, reflecting adjustments to the overall regimental order. Under Arabin's leadership, the initial muster reached approximately 1,000 men, drawn primarily from local volunteers in the western counties to foster cohesion and rapid deployment readiness. By 1782, further administrative changes under a royal warrant assigned county affiliations to line regiments, linking the 57th to West Middlesex and designating it the 57th (West Middlesex) Regiment of Foot. This linkage emphasized ties to 's militia traditions, established by the Militia Act of 1757, which had organized county-based reserves and influenced recruitment patterns for affiliated line units. The change reinforced local identity without altering the regiment's core structure, setting the stage for its enduring association with the region.

The 77th (East Middlesex) Regiment of Foot

The 77th (East Middlesex) Regiment of Foot was raised on 12 October 1787 by Colonel James Marsh, at the expense of the , in anticipation of conflict with France in . Recruits were gathered from across and assembled at before embarking for in early 1788, arriving at Madras in August of that year. Initially designated the 77th (Hindoostan) Regiment of Foot, it functioned as a regiment funded by the Company for service in the . The unit comprised ten companies, with an initial strength of around 900 men, emphasizing rapid mobilization for overseas deployment. Administrative formalization came later; in 1807, upon its return to the British establishment after nearly two decades in , the regiment was officially linked to East under the county system, becoming the 77th (East ) Regiment of Foot. This association strengthened its ties to the county's volunteer and traditions, similar to other line regiments, and supported ongoing recruitment from area and surrounding regions.

Early Campaigns and Service

The 57th (West Middlesex) Regiment of Foot

The 57th (West Middlesex) Regiment of Foot, numerically designated as such since 1756, saw its first major combat deployment during the American Revolutionary War, embarking from Ireland in 1775. The regiment participated in key engagements, including the Battle of Long Island on 26 August 1776, where it helped secure a British victory, and the storming of Forts Clinton and Montgomery on 6 October 1777, during which it suffered casualties in the assault on American defenses along the Hudson River. By October 1781, elements of the regiment, particularly its light company, were present at the Siege of Yorktown, where the entire force under Lord Cornwallis surrendered to combined American and French armies; the captured personnel were interned until the war's conclusion in 1783. Following the conflict, the regiment garrisoned Halifax, Nova Scotia, from 1783 to 1791, enduring harsh conditions that contributed to ongoing attrition through illness and desertion, though specific disease-related losses during this American service are not quantified in regimental records beyond general wartime estimates. In the mid-1790s, as tensions escalated in the French Revolutionary Wars, the 57th Foot deployed to the West Indies in spring 1796, capturing the island of St. Lucia that May after fierce fighting against French defenders. The regiment then garrisoned Trinidad for seven years, but this period was marred by devastating losses to tropical diseases, with over 700 men succumbing to fever and related illnesses during nine months in Grenada (1796-1797) and an additional 700 at Charlotte Town; these epidemics reduced the unit's effective strength significantly, highlighting the perilous nature of Caribbean service for British infantry. Returning to Britain in 1803 amid the escalating Napoleonic Wars, the regiment raised a 2nd Battalion that year, expanding its capacity for overseas operations. The 57th Foot's pivotal role in the Peninsular War began with its arrival in Lisbon in April 1810, joining the Duke of Wellington's allied army against French forces in Spain and Portugal. It fought at the Battle of Bussaco on 27 September 1810, repelling a major French assault, before advancing to the lines of Torres Vedras. The regiment's defining early action came at the Battle of Albuera on 16 May 1811, where, under Lieutenant-Colonel William Inglis, it endured a ferocious French attack; of 570 men engaged, 422 (including 22 officers) were killed or wounded—representing 88% of officers and 75% of other ranks—yet the unit held its ground, earning the nickname "The Die-Hards" from Inglis's rallying cry and securing its first battle honour for the engagement. Further service included the Battle of Vitoria on 21 June 1813, where it contributed to the rout of Joseph Bonaparte's army, and actions at the Pyrenees, Nivelle (10 November 1813, with 106 non-commissioned officers and men killed or wounded), and Nive (13 December 1813). By May 1814, the regiment reached Bordeaux as the Peninsular campaign concluded, having suffered cumulative losses that necessitated the formation of a Provisional Battalion in 1811 to bolster its depleted ranks with survivors from other units. Post-Napoleonic duties saw the 57th Foot dispatched to in August 1814 amid the , arriving at before serving at , Les Cedres, and until peace in 1815; the 2nd Battalion was disbanded on 25 December 1815 as part of broader army reductions, supplying 1,400 men overall during the wars and leaving the regiment with a single battalion of approximately 600 by late 1815. In the 1820s, the unit shifted to colonial garrisons, embarking for in 1826 and serving in the from 1831 to 1846, where it suppressed local rebellions, notably marching through rugged terrain near in 1837 to engage and disperse insurgents on 22 and 24 with a force of 100 , incurring minimal direct losses but facing hardships from and . These early campaigns established the regiment's for , though at the cost of thousands in casualties from battle and disease across its initial decades.

The 77th (East Middlesex) Regiment of Foot

The 77th Foot's early service was dominated by its long deployment in from 1788 to 1806, where it participated in the against . It fought at the Battle of Seedaseer on 5-6 March 1799 and the subsequent Siege of Seringapatam in April-May 1799, contributing to the defeat of forces and earning battle honors for these engagements. The regiment also saw action in the Second Anglo-Maratha War, including the on 23 September 1803, under Sir Arthur Wellesley, where it helped secure a decisive despite heavy casualties. These campaigns in southern and involved grueling marches and combat against numerically superior foes, with the unit suffering losses from battle, disease, and the tropical climate, though specific figures for early Indian service are not detailed in standard records beyond general estimates of high attrition rates for European troops. Returning to in 1807, the 77th was re-equipped and soon redeployed overseas. It sailed to the in 1810, capturing the Isle de France (Mauritius) in December that year. The regiment then joined the in 1811, serving in and , including the on 3-5 May 1811 and the Siege of Ciudad Rodrigo in January 1812. It participated in the advance into France in 1813-1814, fighting at the in December 1813, before moving to for the campaign and the on 18 June 1815, where it was in reserve but contributed to the allied pursuit of Napoleon's forces. Post-war, the 77th garrisoned from 1821 to 1824 and the from 1826 to 1835, enduring further disease-related hardships similar to those faced by other regiments in tropical postings. These early campaigns solidified the 77th's reputation for service in imperial theaters, with cumulative losses underscoring the demands of 19th-century infantry duties.

Victorian and Edwardian Developments

Adoption of "Duke of Cambridge's Own"

In 1782, the 57th Regiment of Foot was officially designated the 57th (West ) Regiment of Foot, reflecting its recruiting area in the county of . This designation emphasized local ties during post-American War reorganizations. The regiment's lineage carried forward into the mid-Victorian era, where further titular honors were bestowed. The adoption of the "Duke of Cambridge's Own" title stemmed from the 77th (East Middlesex) Regiment of Foot, which in June 1876 incorporated the designation as an honor granted by , then serving as of the . This royal patronage recognized the 77th's distinguished service, particularly in and during the , and allowed the regiment to bear the Duke's coronet and cypher on its insignia. Prince George, a career and cousin to , assumed the role of of the combined Middlesex Regiment in , further solidifying the affiliation until his death in 1904. In 1881, under the , the 57th and 77th merged to form The Duke of Cambridge's Own (Middlesex Regiment), perpetuating the title as a mark of prestige. The "Die Hards" nickname, inherited from the 57th Regiment's actions in the , gained renewed emphasis through the merger and royal endorsement, symbolizing unyielding resolve. Originating at the in 1811—where Lieutenant-Colonel William Inglis rallied his men with the cry "Die hard, 57th! Die hard!" amid heavy casualties—the moniker evoked the regiment's reputation for tenacity in desperate stands. This legacy, briefly referenced in ceremonial contexts post-merger, reinforced the unit's identity as a hardy, reliable force under royal colors. Ceremonial adaptations accompanied the titular changes, enhancing regimental tradition. The new Middlesex Regiment adopted quick marches including "Sir Manley Power" and "Paddy's Resource," honoring historical figures and Irish connections from its forebears, while slow marches such as "Caledonian" and "Garb of Old Gaul" evoked Scottish influences. These selections were played at parades and inspections, fostering esprit de corps. Although no unique motto is recorded for the regiment, the 77th had earlier been granted the Prince of Wales's plumes in 1810 for long service in , integrating them into badges as a nod to broader royal favor. The "Duke of Cambridge's Own" designation significantly elevated the regiment's public profile and appeal in the 1870s and 1880s, amid broader Victorian efforts to professionalize the army. Royal association lent an aura of prestige, drawing enlistees from London's working classes and locales who viewed service as a path to stability and honor. Depot establishments at and saw increased voluntary recruits, as the title symbolized loyalty to and helped counter post-Crimean challenges by associating the unit with the Commander-in-Chief's personal endorsement. Public parades featuring the new marches and further boosted perception, portraying the regiment as a modern, elite force within the expanding .

Reforms and Territorial Expansion

The , implemented between 1871 and 1881, aimed to modernize the by linking regular regiments to local auxiliary forces, including and rifle volunteer units, to improve recruitment and territorial ties. For the Middlesex Regiment, formed on 1 July 1881 under these reforms, the 57th (West ) Regiment of Foot and 77th (East ) Regiment of Foot were designated as the 1st and 2nd Regular s, respectively, with their depot established at in . The reforms also integrated local units, with the Royal Elthorne Light Infantry becoming the 3rd () Battalion and the Royal East the 4th () Battalion, providing a reserve force for home defense and potential reinforcement of the regulars. In parallel, the reforms affiliated four existing Middlesex rifle volunteer corps as auxiliary battalions, including the 1st Volunteer Battalion (formerly the 3rd Rifle Volunteer Corps) and the 2nd Volunteer Battalion (formerly the 8th Rifle Volunteer Corps), along with the 3rd and 4th Volunteer Battalions formed from other local units in the , enhancing the regiment's volunteer component for rapid mobilization. These volunteer battalions, armed with and focused on tactics, underwent standardized training and equipment under the reforms, bridging the gap between civilian volunteers and professional soldiers. The Haldane Reforms of 1908 further transformed the auxiliary forces by establishing the from volunteer units and converting the militia into the Special Reserve, creating a more integrated reserve system for imperial defense. Under these changes, the 1st and 2nd Volunteer Battalions were redesignated as the 7th and 8th Battalions of the , while the 3rd and 4th Volunteer Battalions contributed to the formation of the 9th and 10th Territorial Battalions, all assigned to divisions within the . The former militia battalions were renumbered as the 5th and 6th Special Reserve Battalions, tasked with providing trained drafts for the regulars. As part of broader expansion during the Second Boer War, the regiment raised two additional regular battalions in 1900—the 3rd and 4th Regular Battalions—from volunteers and drafts, doubling the active regular strength to meet overseas demands; the original units were then renumbered as 5th and 6th. By 1914, this structure had evolved to include four regular battalions, two Special Reserve battalions, and four battalions, totaling ten battalions and reflecting the regiment's significant territorial growth in response to imperial commitments.

First World War

Regular Army Battalions

The 1st Battalion of the Middlesex Regiment, part of the British Expeditionary Force, deployed to France in August 1914, landing at Le Havre on 11 August as lines of communication troops before joining the 19th Infantry Brigade on 22 August. During the Battle of Mons on 23 August, the battalion relieved elements of the Cavalry Division along the Mons-Condé Canal, holding key bridges and locks against initial German advances with companies positioned in support and reserve roles; it repelled night attacks but suffered limited direct engagement, incurring approximately 400 casualties overall in the early fighting and retreat that followed. The subsequent retreat from Mons, including actions at Le Cateau and Néry through early September, saw the battalion conduct rearguard operations amid intense pressure, contributing to the stabilization of the line before the counteroffensive at the Marne. Throughout 1915, the 1st Battalion served in the , engaging in and supporting operations amid the gas attacks and attritional fighting of the Second in April-May, where it helped maintain positions under heavy artillery and chemical bombardment as part of the 6th Division before transferring to the 2nd Division in August. In 1916, during the , the battalion, now with the 33rd Division's 98th Brigade, participated in assaults at Bazentin Ridge on 14-15 July, advancing through heavily defended positions near Delville Wood and suffering over 500 losses in fierce and shellfire. Further actions in the autumn, including operations near Le Transloy, compounded the toll from machine-gun fire and mud-choked terrain. The battalion's service continued into 1917 at , part of the Third Battle of , where it attacked along the Menin Road Ridge in late , capturing objectives amid torrential rain and deep mud that turned the battlefield into a quagmire; this effort earned battle honors but at high cost, with the unit enduring constant shelling and counterattacks while coordinating with and . Meanwhile, the 2nd , initially stationed in , returned to in 1914 and joined the 8th Division's 23rd Brigade before landing in on 7 , seeing early action at Neuve Chapelle and Aubers Ridge in 1915. Transferred to the Middle Eastern theater, it sailed from Devonport on 18 July 1915 and landed at Suvla Bay, , on 9 August, participating in the grueling August offensives against positions amid extreme heat, , and sniper fire; the battalion endured months of static warfare before evacuation in December. Following , elements supported operations in Salonika as part of the broader Allied effort against Bulgarian and forces, involving trench consolidation and raids in the through 1916-1918. By 1918, the regular battalions had borne the brunt of prolonged frontline service, with the Middlesex Regiment's two regular units suffering approximately 6,000 killed or wounded across all theaters.

Territorial Force Units

The Territorial Force battalions of the Middlesex Regiment, specifically the 7th (1/7th) and 8th (1/8th), were mobilized in as part of the pre-war home defence structure, with the 7th headquartered in and the 8th in . Initially, both units undertook coastal defence duties in southeast , with the 7th moving to the Isle of Grain and the 8th to and , before both were temporarily deployed to from September 1914 to February 1915 to relieve regular troops. Upon returning to , they prepared for active service, landing in in early 1915—the 8th on 9 March and the 7th on 13 March—joining the British Expeditionary Force on the Front. The 7th Battalion, attached to the 23rd Brigade of the 8th Division, saw extensive combat after initial trench familiarization near Estaires, participating in major actions including the in 1916 and the in 1917. In the , it fought during the Battle of Langemarck in August 1917, enduring intense artillery fire and gas attacks amid the Third Battle of Ypres, where it helped secure limited advances at heavy cost. During the of 1918, the battalion was engaged in the Second Battles of the and , as well as the Battles of the , contributing to the Allied defence and counter-attacks that halted the German advance; it was demobilized on 18 May 1919 after sustaining significant losses throughout its service. The 8th Battalion, initially with the 85th Brigade of the 28th Division before transferring to the 167th Brigade of the 56th (1st London) Division in February 1916, focused early on training and labour tasks, including extensive trench construction and maintenance around and the sector in 1915–1916. It later saw frontline action in the Second (April–May 1915), the offensive (including Gommecourt on 1 July 1916, where it suffered over 400 casualties), and subsequent battles at , Langemarck, and in 1917, before participating in the 1918 offensives on the , at , and during the final advance in . Mid-war, personnel from various Territorial Force battalions of the Middlesex Regiment, including the 7th and 8th, were periodically detached or converted to pioneer roles to support engineering tasks such as road-building and fortification work, reflecting the broader demands on reservist units for labour-intensive support. These Territorial battalions collectively endured over 1,200 casualties during their service, underscoring their vital but often underrecognized contributions to the war effort alongside the earlier-arriving regular battalions.

Kitchener's New Armies

Following the outbreak of the First World War, the Middlesex Regiment raised several service battalions as part of Lord Kitchener's call for 500,000 volunteers in , with subsequent waves expanding to form the New Armies. The 16th (Service) Battalion (Public Schools), formed on 1 September 1914 in by Lieutenant-Colonel J.J. McKay, drew recruits primarily from former public schoolboys across , training initially at before moving to and later Clipstone Camp. The 17th (Service) Battalion (1st Football), raised on 12 December 1914 in by William Joynson-Hicks, attracted footballers, groundsmen, and supporters, embodying the concept to foster unit cohesion among civilians transitioning to soldiers. The 20th (Shoreditch) and 21st (Islington) Service Battalions followed in early 1915, with the 20th and 21st formed on 18 May 1915 in their respective districts, all emphasizing local Middlesex ties to boost enlistment from the county's urban population. The 16th Battalion, assigned to the 86th Brigade of the 29th Division, landed in on 17 November 1915 and saw its first major action during the Somme offensive in 1916. On 1 July 1916, the opening day of the , the battalion advanced toward Hawthorn Ridge near Beaumont-Hamel under intense German machine-gun fire, reaching only the crater formed by a preliminary explosion; of approximately 800 men who went over the top, around 524 became casualties, including many officers and non-commissioned officers, marking one of the heaviest losses for a unit that day. The survivors endured further fighting in the Ancre Valley later that year, contributing to the division's efforts amid the attritional nature of the campaign, before the battalion was withdrawn for rest and reinforcement. This action highlighted the rapid but often tragic transformation of enthusiastic volunteers into combat veterans. The 17th Battalion landed in on 7 November 1915 and joined the 6th Brigade of the 2nd Division, seeing action on the in 1916 at Delville Wood and Guillemont, as well as the attack on Redan Ridge in November. The 's football heritage occasionally boosted morale through organized matches, but its primary role remained infantry assaults on the Western Front. It was disbanded on 10 February 1918 in due to manpower shortages, with personnel redistributed to other units. The 20th and 21st Battalions, part of the 121st Brigade in the 40th Division, arrived in France in June 1916 and participated in the later Somme phases, including advances near the Ancre and actions at Oppy Wood in 1917, before transferring to the Italian front in November 1917 for the Piave River battles. By 1918, manpower shortages led to the reduction of these units to training cadres: the 20th on 6 May 1918 and the 21st on 5 May 1918, with remaining personnel redistributed to other Middlesex battalions. The 16th was disbanded in February 1918 near Poperinghe. Overall, these four service battalions contributed over 10,000 men to the war effort, exemplifying the scale of civilian mobilization under Kitchener's drive.

Labour and Pioneer Battalions

During the First World War, the Middlesex Regiment raised four specialised works battalions in 1915, which were designated for labour and duties rather than frontline combat. These units, including the 18th (1st Pioneers, November 1915), 19th (2nd Pioneers, May 1916), and 26th (3rd Pioneers, August 1916 to Salonika), were formed to support engineering tasks such as construction, road building, and infrastructure development on active fronts. The 25th Battalion served in a reserve capacity to supplement these efforts, providing trained personnel for overseas deployment. Recruited primarily from civilian workers and volunteers with construction experience, these battalions bolstered the British Expeditionary Force's logistical needs amid the expanding network. The 18th Battalion was attached to the 33rd Division and played a key role in infrastructure projects during the in 1916. Landing in in 1915, the unit focused on digging communication trenches, repairing roads damaged by artillery, and constructing forward positions near Bazentin and High Wood. Their work was essential for maintaining supply lines under constant shellfire, though they occasionally faced combat when German advances threatened their sites. Similarly, the 19th Battalion supported the 41st Division with comparable engineering tasks on the Western Front. These roles demanded a blend of training and skills, with units affiliated to Engineers for technical guidance. The 26th Battalion, part of the 27th Division, was deployed to the Salonika front in August 1916, where it undertook trench digging and fortification work in the marshy, l terrain of the Struma Valley. Conditions were severe, with soldiers enduring extreme heat, poor sanitation, and rampant diseases; alone affected over 70% of the British Salonika Force, leading to high non-combat and frequent hospitalisations among the pioneers. Minimal combat exposure characterised their service, as the emphasis remained on support operations against Bulgarian positions. All labour and pioneer battalions were disbanded by early 1919 as part of post-armistice demobilisation, with surviving personnel returning home after contributing to reconstruction efforts. In total, these specialised units involved over 4,000 Middlesex Regiment personnel in non-infantry roles, representing a significant portion of the regiment's wartime expansion into support functions. Their contributions underscored the British Army's reliance on dedicated labour formations to sustain prolonged campaigns, though at the cost of arduous conditions and limited recognition compared to combat units. Overall, the Middlesex Regiment suffered approximately 11,000 casualties (killed, wounded, or missing) across all its battalions.

Interwar Period

Reorganization and Peacetime Duties

Following the in 1918, the underwent significant contraction as part of the Army's efforts, reducing from multiple wartime battalions to its two regular battalions—the 1st and 2nd—by the early 1920s. The , which had expanded considerably during the war, was reformed as the in 1920, with the regiment's 7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th Battalions re-established for home defence and training roles. This reorganization reflected the army's shift from to a smaller, professional force focused on imperial policing and routine garrison duties. The 1st Battalion was deployed to Ireland from 1920 to 1922, serving amid the escalating violence of the . Stationed primarily in and surrounding areas, the battalion conducted patrols, protected infrastructure, and responded to ambushes by Irish republican forces, contributing to British efforts to maintain order until the . Meanwhile, the 2nd Battalion spent much of the 1920s in , undertaking standard colonial garrison responsibilities such as frontier security and training exercises in regions like the . In 1927, the battalion joined the Shanghai Defence Force, dispatched to to safeguard British concessions and expatriate communities during unrest linked to the and anti-foreign sentiments. The unit's role involved establishing defensive perimeters around the International Settlement and cooperating with other Allied forces until tensions eased later that year. As international threats grew in , the underwent expansion to bolster national defences, with the Middlesex Regiment's units proliferating accordingly. In 1937, The Kensingtons affiliated as an additional territorial . By 1938, the 7th and 8th Battalions each formed duplicate formations, creating the 1/7th, 2/7th, 1/8th, and 2/8th Battalions and expanding the territorial strength to four battalions by 1939; these units focused on machine-gun support and training in preparation for potential .

Preparations for Renewed Conflict

In the mid-1930s, the Middlesex Regiment began adapting its battalions to meet emerging threats, with the 9th Battalion (Territorial Army) converting to a searchlight unit in 1938 to support anti-aircraft defenses, a role that emphasized early mechanization experiments in mobile air defense equipment. This conversion reflected broader British Army efforts to counter aerial warfare, and the battalion later transferred to the Royal Artillery in 1940 as the 60th (Middlesex) Searchlight Regiment. Meanwhile, the regular 1st and 2nd Battalions underwent reorganization in 1937, transforming into machine-gun battalions equipped primarily with Vickers medium machine guns, which involved initial trials with motorized transport to enhance mobility on the battlefield. These changes positioned the regiment for rapid deployment in potential European conflicts, building on its interwar territorial foundations. The escalating international tensions prompted significant expansion in 1938, when the government issued orders to double the Territorial Army's size. The Middlesex Regiment's two existing territorial battalions—the 7th and 8th—each formed duplicates, creating the 1/7th, 2/7th, 1/8th, and 2/8th Battalions to bolster home defense and expeditionary capabilities, in addition to the specialized 9th and 10th (the latter converting to Royal Signals). This rapid growth increased the regiment's strength to over 2,000 additional personnel across these units, focusing on intensive recruitment and basic training at depots like . The duplicates, while retaining roles initially, prepared for specialized assignments, ensuring the regiment could contribute multiple battalions to divisional structures without depleting regular forces. Throughout the late 1930s, the regiment conducted pre-war exercises across the to refine tactics and coordination, with the 1st Battalion participating in maneuvers that simulated continental operations and attachments to British Expeditionary Force (BEF) planning exercises. These activities, documented in training photographs from the period, emphasized platoon-level assaults, defensive positions, and integration with support, often held in to mimic potential terrain. Officer training intensified at regimental facilities, incorporating leadership courses on doctrines, while the entire force engaged in annual camps to build . Equipment upgrades accelerated readiness, with the regiment receiving Bren light machine guns following their adoption by the in 1937, replacing older Lewis guns and providing squads with more reliable automatic fire support. By 1939, Universal Carriers—light tracked vehicles introduced that year—were allocated to machine-gun platoons for transporting weapons and crews, enabling faster battlefield maneuver and anti-tank roles. These enhancements, tested during exercises, ensured the Middlesex Regiment entered the war with standardized, modernized support tools.

Second World War

Early War and Home Defence

At the outbreak of the Second World War in September 1939, the 1st Battalion of the Middlesex Regiment was stationed in , having been converted to a battalion in 1938. It remained there, manning defenses, until the invasion in December 1941. During the (8–25 December 1941), the battalion fought as part of the , suffering heavy casualties before the Allied surrender on Christmas Day. Most survivors became prisoners of war, enduring harsh conditions in camps until liberation in 1945. The 2nd Battalion, also converted to a machine gun battalion, was in Britain and deployed immediately to France with the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) in as corps troops under General Headquarters. It provided reinforcements and machine gun support to frontline units during the period, engaging in limited actions before the German invasion of May 1940 forced a retreat to the perimeter. During Operation Dynamo, the evacuation from 26 May to 4 June 1940, the battalion successfully withdrew the majority of its personnel across the Channel, though it suffered casualties and left behind equipment during the chaotic defense against advancing German forces. The battalions of the Middlesex Regiment mobilized immediately in 1939, undertaking essential home defense roles, including coastal protection duties along vulnerable stretches of the coastline from 1939 to 1941. The 8th Battalion, for instance, was stationed in initially, manning defenses against anticipated seaborne raids and integrating anti-invasion training with local patrols and fortifications. These units, often duplicated to expand the force (e.g., 1/7th, 2/7th, 1/8th, 2/8th as battalions), played a critical role in securing the eastern seaboard amid fears of German landings following the fall of . Following , the 2nd Battalion was re-equipped and retrained in the UK, contributing to the broader home defense posture against potential invasion. Meanwhile, the 5th Battalion was reorganized and assigned to the 61st Infantry Division, a second-line formation dedicated to home service and . Based primarily in the UK, including periods in from 1941 to 1942, the battalion focused on training exercises, garrison duties, and preparing reserves for potential overseas deployment. As part of this division, it contributed personnel to specialized units during this period. This solidified the regiment's commitment to national defense during the height of the and the threat of .

Overseas Campaigns and Battles

A new 1st Battalion was formed in May 1942 from the 2/8th Territorial Battalion and, after training, landed in on 6 June 1944 as part of the 3rd Infantry Division. Serving as a battalion, it provided support during the D-Day landings and subsequent advance through North West Europe, including operations around , the , and into the and , earning battle honors for its fire support roles until the end of the war in Europe. The Territorial battalions also saw overseas action later in the war. The 1/7th Battalion, as a machine gun unit with the 51st (Highland) Division, deployed to Normandy in June 1944 and supported infantry operations across North West Europe, including the capture of Bremen. The 1/8th Battalion (redesignated 8th in 1943), attached to the 43rd (Wessex) Division, landed in Normandy shortly after D-Day and provided machine gun cover during key battles such as the advance to the Seine, Operation Market Garden, and the crossing of the Rhine, contributing to the final push into Germany. These engagements highlighted the regiment's role in providing suppressive fire in combined arms operations. The 2nd Battalion, after home defense duties, landed in in with the 8th Armoured Brigade and fought through North West Europe, supporting armored advances from the breakout from to the liberation of and beyond into . It remained in occupation duties in post-VE Day before transferring to . Across all battalions, the Middlesex Regiment's engagements in , particularly in North West Europe from 1944, resulted in significant casualties, reflecting its contributions to the Allied victory in multiple theaters including the defense of and home defense.

Post-War Era and Amalgamation

Post-1945 Service

Following the conclusion of the Second World War, the 2nd of the Middlesex Regiment deployed to as part of the forces maintaining the in 1945. The battalion undertook duties in a deteriorating security environment, including patrols and guard operations amid escalating violence from the Jewish insurgency led by groups such as the and Lehi. These efforts involved responding to bombings, ambushes, and sabotage s targeting installations and personnel, contributing to the broader to unrest until the 's end in May 1948. The 2nd moved to in September 1946 and remained there until May 1948, when it returned to and was amalgamated with the 1st on 1 August 1948. During the Korean War from 1950 to 1953, elements of the Middlesex Regiment provided support through attachments to formations like the 27th British Commonwealth Infantry Brigade. The 1st Battalion arrived at Pusan in August 1950 aboard HMS Ceylon alongside the , initially defending positions west of Taegu along the Naktong River before advancing north to engagements at the and Pakchon. Later operations included rearguard actions during withdrawals and valley clearances, such as at Yangyong in April 1951, where the battalion supported allied units with rifle companies and suffered losses, including the first fatality, Private R. Streeter, on patrol near Taegu. The battalion returned to in October 1951 after earning battle honours for actions like the Naktong Bridgehead, where it remained until 1955. From 1955 to 1958, the 1st Battalion served in , conducting counter-insurgency operations against militants. The Middlesex Regiment contributed to counter-insurgency operations during the from 1948 to 1960, with personnel attached to local and units to combat the Malayan National Liberation Army's guerrilla activities in terrain. Units conducted patrols, ambushes, and village security tasks to disrupt communist supply lines and protect rubber plantations and civilian populations, as evidenced by the capture of a communist by regiment members in 1955. In the 1950s, the battalions of the Middlesex Regiment, notably the 7th and 8th, emphasized training programs, instructing conscripts in skills, field exercises, and reserve mobilization at bases like . These units absorbed national servicemen for two-year terms until 1960, fostering readiness amid tensions, though they faced progressive reductions in establishment and roles as part of the 1957 Defence White Paper's army streamlining and the phasing out of . After 1958, the 1st Battalion was stationed in until the mid-1960s.

Amalgamation into the Queen's Regiment

In the late 1950s, the Middlesex Regiment underwent structural changes as part of broader reductions outlined in the , which aimed to streamline infantry units amid fiscal constraints and shifting strategic priorities. This led to the merging of the 3rd Battalion into the 1st Battalion in 1958, reducing the regiment's regular establishment and aligning it with the newly formed Brigade. These reforms set the stage for further consolidation in the 1960s, culminating in the regiment's amalgamation on 31 December 1966. Under the terms of the 1966 defence reorganisation, the Middlesex Regiment (Duke of Cambridge's Own) combined with the Queen's Royal Surrey Regiment, the Queen's Own Buffs, The Royal Kent Regiment, and the Royal Sussex Regiment to form the larger Queen's Regiment, an infantry unit representing the Home Counties. The process involved the transfer of personnel, equipment, and battle honours to the new formation, marking the end of the Middlesex as an independent entity. The 1st Battalion, then serving in British Guiana, participated in ceremonial handovers, including lowering the Union Flag on 25-26 May 1966 upon the territory's independence, while Territorial Army units at Inglis Barracks, Mill Hill, conducted final parades, including a notable trooping of the old colours of the 7th, 8th, and 9th Battalions on 12 March 1966 as a symbolic farewell. The amalgamation's formal conclusion occurred on 31 December 1966, with the handover of the regimental colours during a series of independent parades that honoured the unit's 85-year history. These events, held primarily at regimental headquarters in , included inspections by senior officers such as Major-General C. M. Man, the last Colonel of the Regiment, and gatherings of veterans to witness the colours being laid up or transferred, ensuring a dignified transition. The ceremony underscored the emotional weight of the disbandment, with traditions like the annual Albuhera Day commemoration continuing uninterrupted into the successor unit. Despite the administrative merger, key Middlesex traditions endured within the , notably the "Die Hards" nickname, derived from the 57th (West Middlesex) Regiment of Foot's heroic stand at the Battle of Albuhera in 1811. This moniker, symbolising resilience, was adopted by elements of the 4th Battalion, The (formerly the Middlesex), and persisted through subsequent reorganisations, including the 1992 formation of the . Battle honours such as Albuhera and the regimental march "" were also preserved, maintaining the legacy of the Die Hards in the British Army's infantry structure.

Organization and Traditions

Structure and Battalions

The Middlesex Regiment was formed in 1881 under the by amalgamating the 57th (West Middlesex) Regiment of Foot as the 1st Battalion and the 77th (East Middlesex) Regiment of Foot as the 2nd Battalion, with associated and volunteer units providing additional support structures. Initially structured as a two-battalion , it included two battalions (later numbered 3rd and 4th) for reserve duties and four volunteer battalions for local defense. By 1900, the regiment expanded with the addition of two more regular battalions (3rd and 4th) to meet imperial garrison requirements, particularly in and St Helena, while the militia units were renumbered as the 5th and 6th (Special Reserve) Battalions for home defense and training roles. The 1908 Haldane Reforms further transformed the structure by establishing the , converting the four volunteer battalions into the 7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th Battalions, organized within the Brigade for home service and potential overseas reinforcement. This created a multi-battalion framework by 1914, comprising four regular battalions for imperial garrisons and active deployments, the 5th and 6th Special Reserve for coastal defense and drafts, and the 7th to 10th Territorial Battalions focused on home duties and rapid mobilization. During the First World War, the regiment's structure surged dramatically to over 25 battalions, including first- and second-line Territorial units (1/7th to 2/10th), plus 18 Kitchener battalions (11th to 28th) and additional works and labor units, enabling widespread service across multiple fronts. Post-war reductions under the 1922 Haldane-inspired reforms standardized the peacetime organization to four battalions: the 1st and 2nd as regular units for overseas garrisons and training, and the 7th and 8th as battalions for home reserve and support roles, with the 9th and 10th re-roled into anti-aircraft and signals units. Administratively, the regiment was tied to Middlesex County for recruitment and depot operations at Barracks, falling under the London District command for operational oversight and integration with metropolitan forces. This framework persisted into the , adapting to in 1937 when the regular battalions converted to machine-gun roles, while maintaining the Territorial structure for defense augmentation.

Uniforms and Regimental Insignia

The uniforms of the Middlesex Regiment traced their origins to the , when the 57th (West Middlesex) Regiment of Foot wore standard coats distinguished by facings on the collar, lapels, cuffs, and turnbacks. This traditional dress reflected the regiment's early service in and , with the facings serving as a key identifier amid the broader British Army's red-coated uniformity. The 77th (East Middlesex) Regiment of Foot, amalgamated in to form the Middlesex Regiment, similarly wore with facings prior to the . Following the of 1881, the regiment standardized on scarlet tunics with white facings, maintaining the line infantry style while incorporating elements from both predecessor units. By the early , these facings evolved to lemon yellow, reviving the original hue of the 57th Foot and appearing on full tunics, jackets, and regimental colours. Post-1881, certain affiliated volunteer and territorial battalions, such as the redesignated as a in 1853, adopted rifle green uniforms with red facings to denote their specialized role, though the core battalions retained scarlet. Regimental insignia centered on the cap badge, which underwent refinement during the First World War. In 1916, amid metal shortages, an economy version of the "Die Hard" badge was introduced in all-brass construction, featuring an motif drawn from the 77th Foot's service—reflected in its 1780 honorary third color—and encircled by a scroll bearing the "Die Hards" nickname earned at Albuera in 1811. This design, worn on service dress caps and headdress, incorporated the of Cambridge's and plume within an eight-pointed star, evolving from earlier plates of the 77th Foot that displayed the regimental number. The badge remained a core symbol through the , cast in bi-metal or plastic for officers during the Second World War. During the Second World War, the regiment transitioned to practical battledress for home defence and overseas deployment. The standard khaki wool serge battledress blouse and trousers, introduced in , were modified for North African campaigns with lighter cotton uniforms in sand tones for desert camouflage, including reinforced shorts, bush shirts, and anklets to suit the arid environment. These adaptations, often paired with the regimental badge on berets or side caps, supported operations from to , where personnel added divisional patches like the maroon and yellow diamond of the 50th (Northumbrian) Division. In the post-1945 era, ceremonial uniforms reverted to pre-war traditions for parades and state occasions, featuring scarlet full dress tunics with lemon yellow facings on collars, cuffs, and piping—distinct from the wartime —to honor the regiment's lineage until in 1966. or in Oxford mixture grey, accented with yellow stripes, complemented the tunic, while officers wore aiguillettes and Sam Browne belts; the "" badge persisted on shakos or bearskins for formal reviews. The regiment's traditions included the "Die Hards" nickname, originating from Inglis's rallying cry at the , and the regimental march "The Rohallion." The 77th Foot's honorary third color, featuring an elephant and standards for service in , was carried alongside the King's and Regimental Colours, symbolizing the regiment's . This attire symbolized continuity amid the regiment's transition into the , preserving visual traditions in drill and ceremonial duties.

Leadership and Personnel

Colonels of the Regiment

The Colonel of the Regiment was a senior honorary appointment in the British Army, serving as the ceremonial head of the Middlesex Regiment and playing a key role in preserving its traditions, advising on regimental matters, and fostering unity among its battalions, particularly during transitions like the 1966 amalgamation into the Queen's Regiment. H.R.H. Prince George, Duke of Cambridge, held the position of Colonel-in-Chief from 1898 until his death in 1904, during which the regiment was officially designated "Duke of Cambridge's Own" in recognition of his patronage; he also granted it the right to bear his coronet and cypher on its colours and badges. Following the First World War, General Sir Ivor Maxse, KCB, CVO, DSO, was appointed Colonel of the Regiment in 1921 and served until 1932, despite not having previously served in the unit—a common practice for such senior roles at the time; he focused on integrating the regular, militia, and territorial battalions and founded the regiment's Officers' Club to strengthen cohesion. He was succeeded by Brigadier-General Ronald Macclesfield Napier from 1932 to 1942. During the Second World War era, Maurice Browne, MC, acted as from 1942 to 1952, providing leadership through overseas campaigns and the regiment's post-war reorganization while upholding its "Die-Hards" nickname and battle honours from conflicts like Albuera. Lieutenant-General G. C. Bucknall, , MC, , succeeded as in 1952 and served until 1959, continuing efforts to maintain regimental identity amid broader Army reforms leading to amalgamation. He was followed by Major-General Cyril Henry Norton from 1959 until the 1966 amalgamation. In the lead-up to 1966, the role emphasized preserving the regiment's heritage, including its museum collections now held by the , ensuring traditions endured within the successor .

Notable Officers and Other Ranks

The Middlesex Regiment and its antecedent units, the 57th (West Middlesex) and 77th (East Middlesex) Regiments of Foot, produced numerous distinguished officers and other ranks noted for their gallantry and leadership across major conflicts. A total of eleven Victoria Crosses were awarded to members of the regiment and its antecedent units, with most earned during the First World War for extraordinary bravery under fire, such as maintaining positions amid intense artillery and infantry assaults or capturing enemy strongpoints single-handedly. Among the officers, Lieutenant Colonel William Inglis commanded the 1st Battalion, 57th Regiment, during the , exemplifying resolute leadership at the on 16 May 1811. Severely wounded early in the engagement, Inglis refused evacuation and rallied his men from the ground with the rallying cry "Die hard, 57th! Die hard!", inspiring them to hold against repeated charges despite heavy casualties; this action earned the regiment its enduring nickname, "the Die-Hards". Later promoted to rank, Inglis served as Colonel of the 57th Regiment from 1830 until his death in 1835. In the First World War, Acting Captain Alfred Maurice Toye of the 2nd Battalion displayed outstanding command during the from 25 March to 24 April 1918 near , . Toye organized counter-attacks with limited forces to reclaim lost ground, personally leading assaults that captured over 100 prisoners, and later covered the retirement of outnumbered troops under heavy machine-gun fire, preventing their encirclement; for these actions, he was awarded the and . Toye survived the war, rising to brigadier before retiring in 1952. Other ranks also featured prominently in the regiment's record of valor. Private Robert Edward Ryder of the 12th Battalion earned the on 26 September 1916 at during the , where he single-handedly charged across 100 yards of open ground under intense rifle and machine-gun fire to bomb and capture an enemy trench, killing or capturing its defenders and enabling his company's advance. Similarly, Private Frederick Jeremiah Edwards of the same battalion received the VC for his actions on 26 September 1916 at during the , where, despite wounds, he led a bombing party to overrun a fortified German strongpoint, hurling bombs into dugouts and bayoneting resistors to secure the position. During the interwar and Second World War periods, for the Great War, notable other ranks included those awarded the for Somme exploits, such as maintaining supply lines or repelling counter-attacks amid gas and shelling. These individuals underscored the regiment's tradition of courage across ranks and theaters.

Heritage and Legacy

Battle Honours and Freedoms

The Middlesex Regiment accumulated 142 battle honours over its history, reflecting its service in major conflicts from the to the . These honours were emblazoned on the regiment's colours, selected by royal authority to commemorate key actions, with both the Queen's Colour () and Regimental Colour (lemon yellow) bearing them prominently. Prior to 1914, the regiment inherited honours from its predecessor units, the 57th (West Middlesex) and 77th (East Middlesex) Regiments of Foot. Notable among these were Albuera from the , where the 57th earned its "Die Hards" nickname for standing firm against overwhelming odds, and and from the , earned by the 77th during the siege operations. In the First World War, the regiment was awarded 83 battle honours for service across multiple theatres, including the Western Front, , , , and . Representative examples include and from 1914 defensive actions, from the 1916 offensive, and from tank-led assaults in 1917. These honours recognised the contributions of the regiment's 49 battalions, which suffered over 12,000 fatalities. During the Second World War, the regiment's eight battalions earned battle honours for campaigns in , , North-West Europe, and the . Key examples include for the 1942 desert victory that halted Axis advances, for the 1944 amphibious landing in , for urban fighting during , and for resistance against Japanese invasion in 1941. These honours highlighted the regiment's role in defensive and offensive operations across diverse terrains. The regiment also received civic freedoms as tokens of local appreciation for its service. On 10 May 1948, the 7th Battalion was granted the Freedom of Borough by Hornsey Borough Council. The full regiment received the Freedom of from Hendon Council on 22 October 1955, allowing ceremonial marches through the area. Regimental colours, consecrated prior to presentation, were emblazoned with selected battle honours to preserve the regiment's legacy. These ceremonies underscored traditions, with colours laid up in Regimental Chapel after amalgamation. In April 2025, the regiment's banners were re-hung in the Middlesex Chapel following conservation cleaning.

Regimental Museum and Preservation

The Regimental Museum of the Middlesex Regiment was founded in 1958 by Richard Walter John Smith, M.B.E., following his retirement, initially at the regimental depot in . Upon the depot's closure in 1961, the museum relocated to the Centre on Deansbrook Road in , where it was housed at regimental headquarters and expanded with additional showcases and exhibits, including historical colours and drums acquired from St. George's Church in . In 1969, it moved again to in , with an official opening on 10 October of that year; Smith served as there until his death in 1989. The museum's collections encompassed a wide array of regimental memorabilia, including uniforms, badges, medals, photographs, archives, and silverware, with notable items such as colours from the (presented in 1831) and the 24th Rifle Volunteer , as well as a side-drum associated with multiple battalions. Key exhibits highlighted the regiment's service in major conflicts, featuring items like personal papers and battalion flags from pioneer units, materials such as maps from and campaigns (1940–1943), and three Victoria Crosses awarded to recipients including Corporal Frederick Jeremiah Edwards, Second Lieutenant Rupert Price Hallowes, and Acting Captain Allastair Malcolm Cluny McReady-Diarmid. These artefacts preserved the regiment's operational history, from dioramas representing the Western Front to uniforms worn in desert campaigns. In 1992, the museum was forced to close due to Haringey Borough Council's need for the space, and its entire collection was transferred to the in , where it forms part of the institution's dedicated Middlesex Regiment . As of 2025, the manages preservation efforts, integrating the artefacts into its broader holdings of over half a million objects related to British military history, with ongoing conservation and research support through the Templer Study Centre. Public access is facilitated via the museum's physical galleries in and an allowing searches of digitized records, photographs, and select objects, enhanced by virtual exhibitions introduced during the in 2020 to broaden engagement with the regiment's legacy.

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