Co. A, Drake Battalion, RND

The British Royal Naval Division (RND) was formed at the direction of Winston Churchill, First Lord of the Admiralty, when World War I broke out and was composed primarily of surplus Royal Navy reserves who were not required at sea. It came to be known as "Winston's Little Army."

Although its men enlisted for service as sailors, they were deployed as infantrymen and saw action in some of the most brutal fighting of the war. Considered elite troops, they retained many seafaring traditions - including palm-down salutes and the use of Royal Navy ranks and terminology - much to chagrin of Army commanders.

The RND participated in the defense of Antwerp, fought at Gallipoli and, after being redesignated the 63rd Division in July 1916, served on the Western Front in France for most of the balance of the war, seeing action in numerous major battles including the Somme, Ancre (ironically, French for "anchor") and Passchendaele. The Germans perceived the RND as an elite division.

We portray Co. A of Drake Battalion, which served in both the First and Second Brigades of the RND at different times during the war. We are always looking for individuals wanting to portray this unique division.

Contact:

Commander: Petty Officer Mike Donahoue: mikedonahue90@gmail.com

Recruiter: Able Seaman Goldbrick: eames5@maine.rr.com

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/278829645589248