Historical information

The 8th Light Horse Regiment AIF was raised at Broadmeadows Victoria in September 1914 under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Alexander White and formed part of the 3rd Light Horse Brigade. The regiment served at Gallipoli where in a courageous, but ill-fated charge at the Nek on 7 August 1915, it suffered horrendous casualties including Lieutenant Colonel White. Rebuilt in Egypt under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Leslie Maygar VC the regiment went on the serve throughout the Middle East Campaign. Lieutenant Colonel Maygar died of wounds at Beersheba when the regiment was attacked by enemy aircraft while waiting to follow up the successful charge of the 4th LH Brigade on 30 October 1917. Returning to Australia after the war, the 8th Light Horse AIF was disbanded in 1921, but soon after re-raised as the 8th (Indi) Light Horse in the Citizen Military Forces.

Significance

Rare professional photograph of a light horse squadron prior to their departure for overseas in 1914.

Physical description

Black and white photograph of 6 ranks of soldiers arranged in tiers being " C " Squadron 8th Light Horse, shortly before departure to the Middle East. Photograph is mounted on card.Soldiers are wearing bandoliers and peaked caps.

Inscriptions & markings

On face of image - " 'C' Squad 8th Light Horse" and " Darge Copyright". On rear of mounting card " No.378/2nd Regx? 3rd Top"