00:00The British military has launched a new ceremonial marching troop, 1914-6, to honor Sikh soldiers who served in World War I and beyond.
00:19Dressed in authentic World War I Sikh infantry uniforms, this troop is a tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of Sikh soldiers.
00:28A member of the 1914 Sikhs expressed his pride and privilege in representing the Sikh community and the military.
00:44It was a big deal for me personally, having the opportunity to stand up and represent the Sikh community and the military especially.
00:51It's a big privilege and especially more poignant during the remembrance period.
00:57The inauguration ceremony showcased the troops marching skills and attendees praised the initiative, noting its positive impact on awareness and multiculturalism.
01:06It's good to recognize not just other Sikhs currently serving in the military but the long-standing lineage which every living Sikh today in the military represents.
01:21For example, I was in the coronation in 2023. Individually, you know, it's good to earn recognition but to be able to formalize it as a troop and to be able to put us out there in the parade square, it's a big step forward.
01:33And I think to take away from that is just to not remember the shared history that this country has and the multiculturalism that it brings.
01:42Chamandeep Singh, Sergeant in the British Army and member of the 1917 Sikhs said it was an inspirational experience for him.
01:51So, throughout the day, we were doing rehearsal in the morning as well, people who were bystanders on the roads and said they were stopping by taking photos.
01:58Obviously, this might be something new for them but by seeing this, this is a positive awareness itself.
02:07It's amazing. I can't explain how inspirational and how surreal it feels because this is the replica of the uniform which our forefathers wore back in the day.
02:23The 1914 Sikhs troupe is a celebration of the shared history and multiculturalism of the British military.
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