The Territorial battalions of the Northumberland Fusiliers (149 Brigade) served with distinction in France and Flanders from 1915 until May 1918\. Indeed, their performance at St Julien in April 1915 was recognised in the House of Lords by Lord Kitchener who had previously been somewhat contemptuous of Territorial Forces, advocating the formation of a new citizen army.
Over the next three terrible years 149 Brigade saw major action on the Somme (1916), at Arras and in Flanders (1917) and during the 1918 German offensive. The annihilation of three battalions on the Aisne in May 1918 effectively removed the Brigade from the order of battle.
A superbly researched and long overdue recognition of the Territorials' achievements and sacrifice, A Sturdy Race of Men will be welcomed by all those who have an attachment to the Northumberland Fusiliers. This remarkable regiment comprised fifty-two battalions, twenty-nine of which served overseas.
