About The Regiment
The Wessex Regiment (Volunteers), often referred to simply as the Wessex Regiment (V), was a Territorial Army infantry regiment formed in 1967 as part of a major reorganisation of the British Army Reserve forces.
It drew its lineage from several historic county regiments in the South and South West of England, including the:
- Devonshire and Dorset Regiment
- Gloucestershire Regiment
- Duke of Edinburgh's Royal Regiment (Berkshire and Wiltshire)
- Hampshire Regiment
- Royal Sussex Regiment
The Wessex Regiment was part of the wider effort to maintain a strong local military presence and to preserve the traditions and identities of these older units within a new, flexible structure.
Structure and Service
Initially formed as a Territorial infantry regiment, the Wessex Regiment’s role was to support the Regular Army both at home and overseas. Its soldiers trained regularly in peacetime and were prepared for mobilisation in times of national need.
The regiment comprised several companies based across counties such as Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire, and Gloucestershire, allowing it to maintain strong local ties with the communities it served.
Throughout its existence, the Regiment took part in:
- Annual training exercises
- NATO commitments
- Public duties and ceremonial events
- Support to the Regular Army during national emergencies
Disbandment and Legacy
In 1995, under the restructuring of the Territorial Army and further defence cuts, the Wessex Regiment (V) was disbanded. Its companies and soldiers were absorbed into other TA units, particularly the Royal Rifle Volunteers and subsequently, what would become The Rifles.
Despite its relatively short life, the Wessex Regiment (V) is remembered for its strong esprit de corps, regional pride, and the high standards maintained by its volunteers.
Today, former members continue to honour the Regiment’s legacy through the Old Comrades Association, preserving the bonds of friendship and service that were forged in uniform