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Helmet badge, Calcutta Light Horse, 1887-1901 (metal)
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Helmet badge, Calcutta Light Horse, 1887-1901 (metal)
5927405 Helmet badge, Calcutta Light Horse, 1887-1901 (metal) by British School, (19th century); National Army Museum, London; (add.info.: Helmet badge, Calcutta Light Horse, 1887-1901.
Bi-metal eight-pointed star, with an imperial crown over the unit CLH monogram, with the units motto, Defence not Defiance on a scroll.
Raised in 1872 as the Calcutta Volunteer Lancers, the Calcutta Light Horse was an auxiliary unit within the British Indian Army Cavalry Reserve.
The unit achieved notoriety during World War Two, when personnel from the unit participated in Operation CREEK in 1943. CREEK was a sabotage mission, organised by the Special Operations Executive, to blow up German shipping involved in transmitting intelligence from a neutral port in Portuguese Goa.
The unit was disbanded in 1947 when India gained Independence.
From the Field Marshal Sir John Chapple Indian Army Collection.); © National Army Museum
Media ID 25058088
© National Army Museum / Bridgeman Images
Army Organisation Auxiliary Calcutta City Of Calcutta Inida
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This print showcases a remarkable piece of history - the Helmet badge of the Calcutta Light Horse, dating back to 1887-1901. Crafted in metal by British School artists from the 19th century, this bi-metal eight-pointed star features an imperial crown above the unit's CLH monogram. The badge proudly displays the unit's motto, "Defence not Defiance" on a scroll. Originally established as the Calcutta Volunteer Lancers in 1872, this auxiliary unit played a vital role within the British Indian Army Cavalry Reserve. However, it was during World War Two that they gained significant recognition when their members participated in Operation CREEK in 1943. This daring sabotage mission was organized by the Special Operations Executive and aimed to destroy German shipping involved in transmitting intelligence from Portuguese Goa. Sadly, with India gaining independence in 1947, this esteemed unit was disbanded. Nevertheless, its legacy lives on through artifacts like this helmet badge which serves as a testament to their bravery and dedication. Part of Field Marshal Sir John Chapple Indian Army Collection at London's National Army Museum; this photograph is a valuable addition to Fine Art Finder's collection courtesy of Bridgeman Images. It allows us to appreciate and reflect upon an era when courage knew no bounds and individuals were willing to defend their nation against all odds.
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