2nd Lancers (Gardner's Horse) - World War I

World War I

The regiment was sent to France in World War I as part of the Mhow Cavalry Brigade, 2nd Indian Cavalry Division. It was brigaded with the 6th (Inniskilling) Dragoons and the 38th King George's Own Central India Horse Once in France its personnel were called upon to serve in the trenches as infantry. The high number of officer casualties suffered early on had an effect on performance. British officers who understood the language, customs and psychology of their men could not be quickly replaced, and the alien environment of the Western Front had some effect on the soldiers. During their time on the Western Front the regiment was involved in the Battle of the Somme, Battle of Bazentin, Battle of Flers Courcelette, the Advance to the Hindenburg Line and the Battle of Cambrai.

In February 1918 they left France for Egypt, joining the 10th Cavalry Brigade, 4th Cavalry Division in the Desert Mounted Corps. From May 1918 the Regiment took part in General Edmund Allenby's campaign in Palestine. On 20th September 1918 during the Battle of Megiddo, the 2nd Lancers, commanded by Captain, temporary Major and Acting Lt. Colonel, Douglas Davison launched an improvised cavalry charge which broke the Ottoman line. Capt. D.S. Davison was awarded the DSO for his part in this battle. On the same day, the 4th Cavalry Division captured the towns of Afulah and Beisan, along with around 100 German personnel, aircraft, trucks and railway stock. The regiment was also involved in Lieutenant General Henry Chauvel's pursuit to Damascus along the Pilgrims Road via Deraa. The Regiment returned to India in December 1920.