The British military has a rich and storied history, having defended the kingdom from a myriad of threats over the centuries. From the Spanish Armada to the armies of Napoleon and the Nazi Luftwaffe, the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines have steadfastly served the crown and protected the realm. Today, the British Armed Forces continue to play a crucial role in safeguarding the nation from terrorist threats both at home and abroad. This article delves into the 10 Surprising Facts You Didn’t Know About the British Armed Forces.
From Service to Sports 5 Athletes Who Served in the Air Force
1. Monopoly
During the dark days of World War II, many prisoners of war (POWs) in Nazi camps devised ingenious methods to break free from captivity. One such tactic involved the classic board game Monopoly. The British Secret Service, not the Red Cross as commonly believed, hid specialized escape equipment within the game’s components.
These modified Monopoly sets, marked with a red dot on the Free Parking space, contained hidden German currency, compasses, files, and even silk maps of the surrounding area – all designed to aid POWs in their daring escapes.
2. Family Matters
The American Revolution saw a unique phenomenon among the British forces serving in the colonies – many soldiers brought their wives and children along. These women played vital roles, serving as nurses, laundresses, and sutlers (merchants who supplied soldiers).
Approximately 20% of the British troops stationed in America had their families in tow, a testament to the close-knit nature of the military at the time.
3. Keeping it Clean
In 2005, the Ministry of Defence took a novel approach to soldier hygiene by issuing a special type of antimicrobial underwear. These garments were designed to be worn for up to three months without the need for washing, a practical solution for troops deployed in remote or austere environments where laundry facilities were scarce.
4. The First “Standing Army”
The concept of a permanent, professional military force was a relatively new one in Britain. Prior to 1661, armies had only been raised when the need arose. It was in that year that the first true “standing army” was formed, laying the foundation for the formidable British Armed Forces we know today.
5. Bare-Headed Bravery
The regiment known as the Blues and Royals has a unique tradition of saluting even when not wearing a cover (hat). This custom originated during the Seven Years’ War, when the Marquis of Granby led a daring cavalry charge at the Battle of Warburg, only to have his wig blown off in the heat of the action.
This act of “going at it bare-headed” has since become a point of pride and honor for the regiment.
6. Conscription
Contrary to popular belief, the British military was a volunteer force for many years after the formation of the standing army in 1661. Conscription was first introduced during World War I in 1916 and was later reintroduced for World War II. Following the second war, conscription became known as “National Service” and required all men aged 17 to 21 to serve for 18 months. This system was eventually phased out in 1963, and conscription has not returned to Britain since.
The Modern Air Force of Tiny Luxembourg
7. “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life”
During times of crisis and adversity, the British military has often turned to music and humor as a means of maintaining morale. During the Falklands War, sailors aboard the HMS Sheffield, which had been struck by an Argentine missile and was slowly sinking, began singing the iconic tune “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life” from Monty Python’s Life of Brian.
This resilient spirit was also displayed by RAF pilots during the first Gulf War, who would often sing the same uplifting song before their missions.
8. The Burma Railway
In 1943, the Japanese military forced thousands of Allied prisoners of war (POWs) and Asian laborers to construct the Thailand-Burma Railway, also known as the “Death Railway.”
The horrific conditions and cruelty of the guards resulted in the deaths of approximately 12,399 British POWs and 90,000 Asian workers – a tragic testament to the human cost of war.
9. The Victoria Cross
The Victoria Cross is the highest honor that can be bestowed upon a member of the British Armed Forces. Commissioned by Queen Victoria during the Crimean War in 1863, this prestigious medal is actually made from scrap metal taken from a Russian cannon captured during the conflict.
Due to its rarity and significance, the Victoria Cross is a highly sought-after collectors’ item, with one example fetching an astounding £400,000 at auction.
Top 5 US Airports Serving Both Military and Civilian Flights
10. The Cost of Soldiering
The process of training a British soldier is a significant investment. According to the Ministry of Defence, it costs approximately £30,000 to fully train a new recruit. This figure includes £7,000 for the selection process and £23,000 for Basic Training and the Combat Infantry Course.
FAQs
1. What is the UK Army known for?
The British Army serves various functions, but its main role is as a war-fighting force dedicated to protecting the nation and, if necessary, engaging its enemies with unwavering commitment.
2. What are the 4 armed forces in the UK?
The UK armed forces are comprised of three primary branches: the British Army, the Royal Navy, and the Royal Air Force, along with the Royal Marines. In 2024, out of the 138,120 individuals serving, more than half were in the British Army, which had 75,320 personnel.
3. What is the full name of the UK Army?
The British Armed Forces, which includes the British Army, the Naval Service, and the Royal Air Force, is the main land warfare force for the United Kingdom, its Overseas Territories, and Crown Dependencies.
4. What is a fun fact about the British Army?
The Army has utilized a range of mascots over the years, such as Private Derby, a ram; Pegasus, a Shetland pony; and Bobby, an antelope. These mascots differ from working animals, which are employed in combat or transport roles. The British Army features both official and unofficial mascots.
5. How old is the British Army?
The British Army has a history that extends over three and a half centuries, beginning in 1660, and includes participation in many European conflicts, colonial wars, and world wars.
