Westminster Dragoons, Military unit in Westminster, United Kingdom.
The Westminster Dragoons were a yeomanry unit based at Fulham House in London and operated as part of the British Army Reserve. The regiment converted from cavalry to an armored car unit in 1920 to adapt to changing military needs.
The regiment fought in South Africa during the Second Boer War in 1902 and later took part in the Gallipoli campaign of World War I. These early deployments established the unit as an experienced fighting force across multiple major conflicts.
The regiment drew its members from wealthy London merchants and bankers, and locals called them the 'Piccadilly Peacocks' because of their polished appearance. This nickname reflected the soldiers' upper-class background and confident bearing.
Visitors can explore the unit's history through displays in London museums and archives, where uniforms and equipment are on show. Planning ahead to learn about the regiment will enrich understanding of what you see at the former base.
The unit played a crucial role in the Normandy landings in 1944, leading British forces onto the beaches. This operation was one of their most significant contributions to World War II and demonstrated their effectiveness under extreme pressure.
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