Hong Kong Regiment facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hong Kong Regiment |
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| Active | 1891–1902 |
| Country |  British India |
| Allegiance |  British Indian Army |
| Branch | Army |
| Type | infantry |
| Role | Garrison force |
| Garrison/HQ | British Hong Kong |
| Nickname(s) | "The Swagger Regiment" |
| Engagements | Boxer Rebellion |
| Disbanded | 1902 |
The Hong Kong Regiment was a special army unit. It was made up of soldiers from British India. This regiment was sent to help protect British Hong Kong. It was active between 1891 and 1902. The regiment was later disbanded because it cost too much money.
Contents
A Look Back: The Hong Kong Regiment's Story
The Hong Kong Regiment was formed because more soldiers were needed in Hong Kong. This idea came about in 1886. The soldiers were recruited from Upper India by the British Indian Army. They arrived in Hong Kong in 1892.
Helping the Community
When the soldiers arrived, their British officers gave them permission to help. They helped fund and rebuild the Kowloon Mosque. This was for the "Mohammedans of Upper India" who were part of the regiment.
Highly Praised Soldiers
The soldiers of the Hong Kong Regiment were known for being very good at their jobs. They were excellent at drilling and soldiering. The first recruits were so good at shooting that an expert said there was "little we could teach them."
A newspaper called The Daily Telegraph even called it a "Swagger Regiment." A very important army leader, Lord Roberts, praised them highly. Governors of Hong Kong also often repeated this praise.
Uniforms and Duties
For everyday duties, the regiment wore khaki uniforms. This was a practical and comfortable choice. However, for special events in cold weather, they had a fancy uniform. It was bright scarlet and blue.
In 1897, the regiment was sent to help keep peace in the New Territories. These were new areas that Hong Kong had just gained.
Fighting in the Boxer Rebellion
The regiment took part in the Boxer Rebellion. This was a conflict in China. They played a big role in helping to relieve Peking (now Beijing). This was an important mission.
Why the Regiment Was Disbanded
In 1902, the regiment was disbanded. The India Office asked for this because it was very expensive to keep them. The soldiers in this regiment were paid more than others. This meant they could choose the best new recruits.
After the regiment was disbanded, its soldiers joined another unit. This unit was renamed the 67th Punjabis. The regiment's special flags, called colours, were placed in St John's Cathedral. Sadly, these flags were lost later during the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong.
