The 20th Light Horse (Victorian Mounted Rifles) was raised in 1920 as part of the 3rd Cavalry Brigade, 2nd Cavalry Division, Citizen Military Forces, with Headquarters at Seymour and depots along the Goulburn Valley from Mansfield to Tocumwal in southern NSW. In December 1941, 20th Light Horse (Victorian Mounted Rifles) converted from horse to mechanised, initially as 20th Motor Regiment. In 1943 the Regiment was deployed to Merauke, Dutch New Guinea. Upon its return in April 1945, the Regiment was redesignated 20th Pioneer Battalion. It was disbanded following the end of the war. 20th Light Horse was the only light horse regiment to serve overseas in WWII.This is one of a collection of photographs featuring a Light Horse regiment drawn from rural and regional Victoria in the period immediately prior to mobilisation for World War 2 (1939-1945).Black and white photograph of soldier in Light Horse uniform: slouch hat with plumes: tunic with collar badges" belt and bandolier" jodhpurs boots and leggings. Part of 20th Light Horse collection.20th light horse, uniform

Puttees formed part of WW1 uniform and are a wrapping from ankle to just below knee. Originated in British Army in India and spread to all Commonwealth Armies. Worn predominantly by infantry, but sometimes by Light Horse in France in winter because they were warmer than leather leggings.Pair of World War One puttees.uniform, puttee, india

The 8th Light Horse (Indi) Regiment superseded the 16th Light Horse in 1919. It had its headquarters at Benalla with sub-units throughout the Upper Murray and Northeast Victoria. In December 1941, the regiment converted from horse to mechanised, initially as 8th Reconnaissance Battalion then in July 1942 it became 8th Cavalry Regiment and served in Northern Territory. As Japanese threat to the mainland declined the regiment was disbanded.Study showing uniform in late 1930sBlack and white photograph of Officer wearing peak cap, tunic with AIF collar badges, Sam Browne belt. leggings, boots and spurs. Probably 8th Light Horse at outbreak WW2

WWII soldier's uniform. Australian Light Horse1 pair brown leather gaiters, or leggings, with leather straps and two brass buckles on each. Yellow stitching on tabs which secure winding strap. Metal pins securing strap guidesImpressed in tops: 1939, 16, J. Oakman (maker)