Records of 320,000 Punjabi soldiers who served in World War I have been discovered, highlighting the key role Indian soldiers played in supporting the Allied forces. These soldiers, later called the "Lions of the Great War," were known as the "Black Lions" during the war. Sikh soldiers were honored by being allowed to carry their traditional weapons like chakrams and talwar swords. It was a moment of deep pride and respect to see the sacred Sikh scripture, Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, paraded before Sikh battalions or held in reverence on the battlefield.

 

Background and Recruitment

Colonial Context: By the early 20th century, India was under British colonial rule, and the British Indian Army included diverse groups from different regions and communities. Sikhs, known for their martial traditions and historical military contributions, were heavily recruited by the British due to their reputation for bravery and discipline. This recruitment was in line with the British colonial policy that identified certain communities, including Sikhs, as "martial races."

Sikh Representation in the Army: At the outbreak of World War I in 1914, Sikhs made up a significant portion of the British Indian Army, despite being only around 2% of India’s population. It is estimated that over 100,000 Sikh soldiers served in various capacities during the war, which included serving in the infantry, cavalry, and engineering units.

 

Battle of Gallipoli

 

In April 1915, the 29th Brigade, including the 14th Sikhs, prepared for deployment abroad, gathering at Port Said by mid-month. On April 27, they boarded the Dunluce Castle and set sail the next day for Gallipoli. Upon their April 30th arrival, they were greeted by the large fleet off Gallipoli, constantly bombarding Turkish forts.

By May 1, the 14th Sikhs landed near "V" Beach, Cape Helles. Initially, they served in support roles, helping unload supplies and building roads at both "V" and "W" Beaches. The Allies held their ground nearby, with the French, British 29th Division, and the Royal Naval Division stationed across the region.

 

Their first night was tense; the Turks broke through the French and the 29th Division's defenses, keeping the Sikhs on high alert. Despite the initial challenges, the 29th Indian Brigade wasn’t immediately drawn into action.

Attempts to advance on May 2 stalled, keeping the Indian Brigade out of combat. The following night saw another failed Turkish attack, with the Sikhs on standby. However, General Hamilton ordered an offensive for May 6, aiming to take advantage of enemy weaknesses.

Although the "Second Battle of Krithia" began with the Indian Brigade in reserve, major efforts from May 6-8 led to minimal progress. By May 9, the Brigade moved to the front lines, marking the start of trench warfare. The 11th/6th Gurkhas' capture of Gurkha Bluff on May 12 demonstrated their brave efforts.

 

On May 13, the 14th Sikhs assisted the Gurkhas. During this time, they faced difficulties: Captain Channer was wounded, and Major Swinley was mortally injured. Colonel Palin’s strict leadership was evident when he insisted on grooming before battle.

Although they hadn’t faced direct battle since their arrival, the Battalion had suffered 78 casualties by mid-May, including three British officers. As May went on, their duties focused on strengthening defenses and occasional minor confrontations.

 

A significant advance was made on May 22 when Captain Engledue’s "B" Company recaptured trenches previously held by the Turks, earning praise from the Royal Fusiliers. The ongoing trench warfare brought the British front dangerously close to the Turks by the end of May.

By this point, the Allies at Helles had reorganized. The British line, including the 14th Sikhs, fortified positions near Gully Ravine. Though challenges remained, the Sikhs’ determination stayed strong.

 

The Third Battle of Krithia: June 4th, 1915

 

On June 4th, 1915, under the leadership of Sir Ian Hamilton, the Allies prepared for a large-scale offensive, aiming at the entire Helles front. The area was defined by the challenging terrain of Gully Spur and the heavily defended Turkish positions, J10 and J11. An extensive Gully Ravine added further obstacles, with its dense vegetation and hidden enemy weaponry.

The Indian Brigade's plan had two main objectives. The first group, including the 6th Gurkhas, Lancashire Fusiliers, and the 14th Sikhs, aimed to capture trench J11. Fifteen minutes later, the second group, with the remaining troops, was tasked with targeting trench J13. Artillery fire was to pave the way for the infantry's advance.

 

Colonel Palin, overseeing the details of the attack, assigned specific companies for each wave. One of his tactics involved using the element of surprise, with some companies attacking the trenches from the side. By the evening of June 3rd, everything was set, spirits were high, and optimism spread throughout the troops.

However, the anticipated victory on June 4th slipped away from the Allies. The Turkish forces, firmly entrenched, withstood the artillery strikes. The Indian Brigade's first wave, particularly the Lancashire Fusiliers, faced immediate resistance and suffered casualties. Although the 6th Gurkhas and 14th Sikhs made some headway, they were eventually forced to pull back due to heavy losses.

 

A remarkable display of bravery took place in Gully Ravine, where Lieutenant-Colonel Jacques and No. 2 Double Company encountered hidden machine gun fire. Despite the overwhelming odds and devastating losses, the Sikhs showed resilience, with courageous soldiers like Havildar Maghar Singh leading the charge against the enemy.

But the next wave, advancing at 12:15 p.m., faced similar obstacles. The Sikhs, led by Colonel Palin, made some progress, but their numbers thinned due to the intense fighting. Even with additional troops arriving in the afternoon, the Allies were unable to shift the momentum.

The following morning, as their position became increasingly unstable, Colonel Palin ordered a withdrawal. The 14th Sikhs, exhausted and greatly reduced in strength, returned to their original positions. Even during this retreat, acts of courage, such as Lieutenant Mathew's attempt to recover a machine gun, stood out.

 

Gully Ravine

 

At month's end, an assault was planned on Gully Spur. On June 28th, the 29th Division and a brigade of the 52nd Division advanced, seizing five enemy trenches. The 14th Sikhs, in reserve due to their weakened state, did not participate directly. Still, while building trenches, they suffered casualties, including three officers: Captain Engledue, Lieutenant Cursetjee, and Second Lieutenant Savory, who was wounded for the second time.

The Sikhs held their position near the coast, with Colonel Palin temporarily reassigned. Second Lieutenant Savory, being the last officer and only lightly wounded, assumed command. While they weren't at the front lines, the Sikhs still sustained casualties from enemy fire.

 

During mid-month clashes at Gurkha Bluff, Second Lieutenant Savory received a letter from his father, mistakenly believing he had died, asking for details and the return of his personal belongings. Savory humorously responded from Brigade Headquarters, confirming his well-being and current command of his regiment.

The 29th Division carved out a position in the enemy's defense by overtaking Fusilier Bluff. Still, Turkish forces controlled some strategic points. A heavy Turkish counterattack targeted the 14th Sikhs and the 6th Gurkhas, but it was soundly repelled. Another assault on July 3rd met similar resistance.

July 4th was comparatively calm, but at dawn the next day, the Turks attacked fiercely. They faced strong resistance, especially from the Sikhs, resulting in heavy Turkish casualties. Tragically, Major Wilmer died in the skirmish.

 

The Indian Brigade later retreated to the coast for a brief respite, with each battalion significantly weakened from the battle, now termed the Action of Gully Ravine. The 14th Sikhs had severe casualties, leaving Second Lieutenant Savory with only Subadar-Major Sham Singh and 117 men. The Turks suffered even more, but there were no British reinforcements to press the advantage.

 

By July 10th, the Indian Brigade departed for the island of Imbros, reaching it after a short journey.

 

Imbros

 

On Imbros, the Brigade established camp about half a mile from the coast. The peaceful setting and open space provided a refreshing break for the troops. For the first time in over two months, they could move about freely without the constant threat of danger. Nearby, clean beaches offered a chance for the soldiers to relax, which both officers and men greatly valued. While there were regular field training sessions, the Sikhs mainly concentrated on improving their parade formations.

The island's appeal captivated the officers, many of whom explored Panaghyr, its charming capital. The 14th Sikhs were reinforced on July 12th by a double company from the Patiala Imperial Service Infantry. Colonel Palin's arrival on July 18th was greeted with genuine excitement.

As July progressed, there were rumors of Sir Ian Hamilton's upcoming major attack on the Gallipoli Peninsula. The main assault was set for Anzac, with coordinated strikes planned at Helles and Suvla Bay. On August 1st, the 14th Sikhs and the Indian Brigade returned to Gallipoli, setting off on a ship from Imbros. Despite the now-familiar sight of the peninsula, the soldiers' morale remained strong.

 

The Landing at Suvla Bay: August 6th-7th, 1915

 

The long-awaited assault at Suvla Bay began on August 6th. The 14th Sikhs, along with the 29th Indian Brigade, landed at the western end of Suvla Bay. Although they faced fewer challenges than at Helles, the early stages of the landing were chaotic. The water near the landing site was unclear, and Turkish defenses provided strong resistance, slowing the troops' advance.

As the landing advanced, the Sikhs encountered unexpected delays. The initial plan to swiftly secure the area was obstructed by disorganized efforts and the determined Turkish defenses. Consequently, progress was slow, and many soldiers found it difficult to advance.

The first day's landing involved significant effort from the Sikhs, but territorial gains were minimal. The 29th Brigade and other divisions encountered serious difficulties, and the landing's success was limited. Despite these challenges, the Sikhs demonstrated determination as they pushed through the initial hurdles, maintaining their resolve to secure the position.

 

By August 7th, the situation remained unclear. Some ground was gained, but challenges continued. The Turkish forces, deeply dug into their positions, maintained strong resistance. The Sikhs, alongside other Allied forces, faced fierce fighting and ongoing difficulties.

In conclusion, the landing at Suvla Bay showcased the Sikhs' unwavering courage and persistence under tough conditions. Early victories were dampened by continued struggles, highlighting the intricate nature of the campaign.

 

The Third Battle of Krithia

 

The Battle of Krithia, fought from June 4-6, 1915, was a crucial conflict during the Gallipoli Campaign. Despite careful planning and a large Allied force, including the 14th Sikhs, the battle resulted in heavy casualties and minimal progress. The Sikhs displayed remarkable courage under tough conditions, playing a key role in the larger Allied mission. The battle underscored both the difficulties and the determination of the troops involved..

 

Aftermath and Significance

 

In the aftermath of the Gallipoli campaign, the 14th Sikhs and other units dealt with the consequences of the fierce fighting. The outcome of the campaign affected future military strategies and highlighted the important role of Indian soldiers in World War I. The legacy of the 14th Sikhs and their comrades serves as a mark of their bravery and sacrifice during one of the war's most difficult battles.

 

The role of Sikh soldiers in World War I, especially in the Gallipoli campaign, shows their commitment and bravery. The battles they fought in, including the Third Battle of Krithia and the landing at Suvla Bay, highlight their crucial contributions to the Allied effort and their lasting impact on military history.

 

Conclusion

The bravery and sacrifice of Sikh soldiers during World War I, especially in the Gallipoli campaign, stand as a strong example to their courage and resilience. Their significant contributions, despite facing great odds and tough challenges, highlight their firm dedication to the Allied cause. The legacy of the 14th Sikhs and their fellow soldiers continues to inspire and honor their crucial role in one of history’s most challenging battles.

 

 

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