SOLDIERS from the Mercian Regiment will parade through Worcester on Saturday, October 21, to celebrate the ten year anniversary of the organisation’s formation, writes Lewis Glennon.
Known as ‘the Heart of England’s Infantry’, the Mercian Regiment is one of the most decorated and operationally experienced regiments in the British Army.
It was formed on September 1, 2007, at a parade held in the Tamworth Castle grounds.
It brought together three antecedent regiments – the Cheshire Regiment, the Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment; and the Staffordshire Regiment.
Cptn David Maddock, of the Mercian Regimental Adjutant, said: ” We will be able to celebrate the successes of the regiment in its first ten years and the dedication and commitment of its soldiers in their role keeping the people of Great Britain safe.’
”The Mercian Regiment’s links with the City of Worcester are very strong, with soldiers from the area serving in the regiment.
“It will be great for us to be able to thank the people of Worcestershire for their support for our antecedent regiments and the Mercian Regiment.”
The parade will start off from Worcester Cathedral at 11am and will follow a route through the city centre to Dancox House Army Reserve Centre and on to Pheasant Street.
The event will also mark the centenary of the award of the Victoria Cross to Private Frederick Dancox of the Worcestershire Regiment.
Dancox was serving with the 4th Battalion the Worcestershire Regiment during the Passchendaele offensive in 1917. Despite getting separated from his patrol, Dancox managed to dodge enemy fire and capture 40 German soldiers.
He was due to be awarded the Victoria Cross in November 1917, but never received it as he was killed in battle. Now however, he is being awarded for his bravery with a plaque of honour.
The plaque will be unveiled at the end of the parade at Dancox House Army Reserve Centre, at around 11.30am.
Maddock said: “To be able to combine the Mercian Freedom Parade with the unveiling of the Dancox Memorial makes the day all the more important.”
