West Indian Soldier

Discover the shared military heritage between the UK and the Caribbean in this special exhibition exploring the role of West Indian soldiers in the British Army.

This exhibition, delivered in partnership with the West India Committee and supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, highlights the little-known military heritage shared between the UK and the Caribbean.

Encompassing more than 300 years of history, it tells the story of the recruitment and role of West Indian servicemen and women in the British Army, the experiences of British soldiers and officers in the Caribbean, and their combined service in various military campaigns.

Discover the role of the British Army in the Caribbean and the difficulties it faced there.

Follow some of the key moments in the history of the West India Regiments. And learn how the nature of their recruitment and service led to the unique position that these soldiers occupy in both the history of the British Army and the Caribbean.

Understand the contributions made by West Indian servicemen and women over the centuries, including during both World Wars, and their continuing service across the globe today.

Exhibition highlights include the Victoria Cross of Lieutenant Frank De Pass, the colours of the 4th West India Regiment, the war diary of the British West Indies Regiment and a rare portrait of a private soldier of the 8th West India Regiment, painted in 1804 and acquired by the National Army Museum in 2018 with the generous support of the Art Fund.
 
Accompanied by a diverse public programme and educational materials, this exhibition is part of an ongoing heritage project exploring the relationship between the British Army and the Caribbean, generously supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Terms and conditions of ticket sales

Admission

Entry to 'West Indian Soldier' is free. However, as part of our Covid-19 safety measures, we are asking visitors to book a time slot online before visiting the Museum.