大象传媒

Jersey's Royal Square has been the scene for many dramatic incidents in the island's history; it was even the setting for a battle, when the French invaded in 1781.

But a hundred years ago there was an equally important moment, as hundreds of young Jersey men formed ranks here, amid cheering spectators, and marched off to war.

They were the Jersey Company, a unique group of volunteers. They were the only group of Jersey men to fight together as a unit during World War One.

As they left the square early on the morning of 2 March 1915, no one could have imagined that by the end of the war nearly a third of them would be dead.

They fought in some of the hardest battles of a dreadful war; The Somme, Ypres and the Messines Ridge.

They won two Military Crosses, two Distinguished Conduct Medals, and 15 Military Medals - as well as several foreign awards.

In the states building on the square which they had marched from three years before, politicians and soldiers paid tribute to their bravery, enthusiasm and ability.

Location: Royal Square, St Helier, Jersey JE2 4WA
Image shows Jersey Company troops gathered in Royal Square, contrasted with how the square looks today

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