Swift and Bold
Swift & Bold
A Commemoration of the Church Lads’ Brigade from Newfoundland and Britain during World War One at the Church of St John Baptist, Hugglescote, Leicestershire on 5th July 2016 at 7.30pm
Featuring the Regimental Band and members of the Newfoundland CLB and the Leicester Regimental Band and UK members of the Church Lads’ and Church Girls’ Brigade.
In words, music and pictures tributes will be paid to the 250,000 members of the CLB worldwide who served during the Great War. Fresh from their ‘Tour of Honour’ performances at remembrance ceremonies in France and Belgium, the Newfoundland CLB Regimental Band are visiting England for the first time in its 120 year history. Performing alongside them will be local Brigade musicians from Hinckley, Barwell and Whetstone. A highlight of the service will be the ceremonial handover of a Torch of Remembrance. The following week Brigade members from the UK will be visiting France and Belgium to remember those that fell during the Battle for High Wood on 15th July 1916.
From 7.00pm the Newfoundland and Leicester Regimental bands will provide pre-service music.
Historical Background
In Britain, the 16th Battalion, King’s Royal Rifle Corps initially recruited exclusively from the CLB or former members. This Battalion served with the highest distinction and came to be known as the ‘Churchman’s Battalion’. Many members also served across the spectrum of army regiments and corps plus naval and air forces. Eighteen former members were awarded the Victoria Cross, the Commonwealth’s highest award for bravery.
At the outbreak of the War the Colonial government raised the Newfoundland Regiment with significant support from the Brigade. Over 500 members of the Newfoundland CLB, including 11 members of the Regimental Band, enlisted for war service, many with the Regiment and 135 paid the Supreme Sacrifice.
In remembering those who fought and died with solemn gratitude for their sacrifice.