|
 |
The 18th Light Dragoons are a historical
re-enactment light cavalry unit that recreate the cavalry of the
Napoleonic period, both as French and as British (See the 1er
Chasseurs à Cheval - click
here).
The unit was formed because of pressure from our overseas hosts to
play British Cavalry. The addition of fur caps, pelisses and
barrelled sashes gave the unit the ability to be the 18th Hussars,
post 1808. Thus the whole group is now very adaptable being able to
portray different cavalry units under the same training procedures
and command structure. Members of the unit can fight mounted or
dismounted as troopers carry carbines, sabres and in some cases,
pistols. There is also a dismounted troop for those who do not wish
to ride, or who wish to experience the feel of the unit before
moving on to becoming a mounted dragoon. This also means that when
the whole regiment attends a foot event it can field a strong and
effective light unit.
Because of the wide variety of disciplines that are practiced,
members of the unit are doing one sort of event or another
throughout the whole year, whether it be training in the winter
months, battles in the UK and on the Continent, battle proms
concerts, and skill at arms competitions and shows. The Regiment is
available to put on shows for an event which can be drill, skill at
arms, a musical ride or an educational session. Both mounted and
dismounted elements are incorporated in these giving everyone the
opportunity to take part.
It is a fact of life that any work with horses costs money and
cavalry re-enactment costs a lot of money. Because the regiment has
uniforms for both the 18th Light Dragoons and 18th Hussars plus the
correct horse equipment for both the cost is even higher. However
initially it is not necessary to purchase both and it is also
possible to join the dismounted troop as a first step to riding.
Recruits must be able to ride to a standard equivalent to BHS Stage
2, with horsemanship to match. Because of the need to use a weapon
in their right hand they must be able to ride one handed. They need
to be able to look after a mount in all weathers, be prepared to
carry on with the event regardless of the weather, and like sleeping
under canvas. A certain capacity for drinking red wine is useful.
|
