Home > Army Organisation > Infantry > The Kent Cyclist Battalion
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Battalions of the regular army
None. This was an all Territorial regiment.
Battalions of the Territorial Force
1/1st Battalion:
Headquartered at the Drill Hall in Tonbridge, the battalion moved on mobilisation in early August 1914 to its pre-planned war station at Canterbury. In 1915 it was attached to the 57th Division for duties with the Kent and Sussex coastal defences. Moved on 2 December 1915 to Chisledon Camp and reorganised as an infantry battalion. From this time on the unit did not use the word "Cyclist" in its title. Together with 2/6th (Cyclist) Bn Royal Sussex Regiment , 1/9th (Cyclist) Bn Hampshire Regiment and 1/25th (Cyclist) Bn London Regiment, they formed a brigade originally intended for service in East Africa. There was a change of mind, however, and the battalion sailed for India on 8 February 1916. On arrival came under command of Southern Brigade, 9th (Secunderabad) Division. Moved in December 1916 to Ferozepore Brigade in 3rd Lahore Divisional Area. In February 1917 the Brigade transferred to the 16th Indian Division.
2/1st Battalion:
Formed in late 1914 as a second line unit. By 1916 was at Canterbury and in March 1917 at Ramsgate. By August 1918 it had moved to Lydd.
3/1st Battalion:
Formed in 1915 as a depot/training unit. Disbanded in 1916.