Our humble Origins 1794
Defending the Coast Against Revolutionary France
In response to the threat of French invasion during the Revolutionary Wars, local volunteers formed the Sussex Yeomanry in 1794. These mounted troops, raised by prominent landowners and gentry, were among Britain’s first organised volunteer cavalry units.
Their mission: to safeguard Sussex’s vulnerable coastline and preserve national order in a time of upheaval.
The Imperial Yeomanry 1899
Sussex Rides to War in South Africa
The Boer War of 1899 saw the rebirth of the Sussex Yeomanry as part of the newly formed Imperial Yeomanry. Though Sussex no longer had its own unit, local men joined volunteer companies raised for service in South Africa. They faced modern guerrilla warfare, harsh conditions, and long deployments far from home.
World War One 1914
Gallipoli, Palestine, and the Western Front
The Sussex Yeomanry went from cavalry to infantry, fighting across multiple fronts during WWI.
rom the deadly trenches of Gallipoli to the deserts of Palestine and the battle-scarred fields of France, these volunteers endured disease, intense combat, and high casualties, earning battle honours that still echo today.
World War Two 1939
From Dunkirk to Monte Cassino
Mobilised in 1939, the Sussex Yeomanry fought in some of WWII’s most iconic campaigns. They evacuated from Dunkirk, fought in North Africa, Sicily, and Italy, and played a vital role in the liberation of Europe.
Their regiments adapted to mechanisation and modern warfare while maintaining their historic identity.
Cold War and Reorg 1947
From Anti-Aircraft Guns to Final Parade
Post-WWII austerity, National Service, and the Cold War reshaped the Sussex Yeomanry. Reformed in 1947 as an anti-aircraft unit, they later transitioned to field artillery, then Royal Engineers.
After decades of NATO training and Cold War readiness, the unit was disbanded in 1999, ending over 200 years of local service.