SIKH MILITARY BEFORE THE WORLD WARS (PRE 1914)

A Legacy of Valour is a chronicle of the Sikh Regiment, its evolution, growth, ethos, tradition and contribution spanning 164 years as a part of the great Indian Army. It is more so the story of the Sikh Soldier whose virtues of loyalty and fortitude under most trying and varied conditions, and fidelity to the flag have contributed immensely to the high pedestal that the Sikh Regiment stands on.

The valour of the Sikh Soldier is renowned the world over. 

His professionalism in combat has witnessed astounding victories in many a legendary battle. 

The brave Sikhs have endured every hardship and overcome every challenge with resilience; their heads held high in the true traditions of soldiering.

During the two Anglo-Sikh wars, in the outstanding battles fought at Mudki, Ferozeshah, Sabraon, Multan, Chillianwala and Gujrat, the Sikh soldiery had clearly demonstrated their fighting ability. Resolute in attack and aggressive in defence, their determination to win regardless of the cost and the odds prompted the British to raise two battalions of Sikh troops. 

Following the end of the first Anglo-Sikh war in 1846, these men were recruited from that region of the Punjab that lay to the south of the river Sutlej. 

These battalions were raised on 1 August 1846 and designated as the 'XIV Ferozepur Sikhs' (now 4 Mechanised Infantry - 1 SIKH) and the 'XV Ludhiana Sikhs' (now 2 SIKH); they were recruited from the designated areas as indicated by their name. With this began the rise of the illustrious Sikh Regiment.

These warriors were involved in many battles and coronations under the British raj. This give the legendary Sikhs from the land of the five rivers the opportunity to explore new lands , traveling the world fighting with honour as loyal subjects of the British Empire.

Illustrated parading through London as early as 1882 , Sikh regiments also paraded for Queen Victoria's golden jubilee (1885) and diamond jubilee (1897), and for the coronations of King George VI (1902), George V (1911), and George VI (1937).