Isle of Thanet in the Great War: Margate Broadstairs Ramsgate

The Isle of Thanet in the Great War: Broadstairs, Margate, Ramsgate The Isle of Thanet's strategic location made it a crucial part of the First World War effort. As wounded British and Commonwealth troops returned from France and Belgium, the island was one of their first sights of England. The area's vulnerability to air attacks from German Zeppelins and Gotha Bombers meant that it was always at risk of sudden and unexpected bombardment. The island's contribution to the war effort was significant, with thousands of men serving in the armed forces and hundreds of men and women volunteering for the Voluntary Aid Detachments. The local Territorial units, including the 4th Battalion, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment) and the 3rd (Kent) Battalion, Royal Field Artillery, were quickly mobilized for wartime service. Many of the district's Police Constables, who were ex-servicemen or still on the Army Reserve, were also called up to serve. The people of the Isle of Thanet, like those across the country, wanted to do their part in the war effort. By the end of the war, the island had played a vital role in ensuring a victorious outcome, making the sacrifices of those who had paid the ultimate price slightly easier to accept. This book explores the Isle of Thanet's experience during the Great War, shedding light on the island's contribution to the war effort and the impact it had on the