The Mounted Troops of the BEF in 1914 were arguably the most modern European cavalry. Whereas the French and Germans were still utilising cavalry in their 19th C role as shock troops, the British had learnt from the Boer War that such men could be used as both the traditional shock force and as mounted infantry. (They did not fire from hortseback!!)

During the Boer War horse losses amongst the cavalry regiments had averaged at 8%. 70% of these losses were due from exhaustion or disease rather than as a direct result of enemy action. By 1914 the British had improved their understanding and practical care of horses. The veterinary corps was hugely extended between the Boer War and 1914. As a result the 8% monthly losses sustained during the Boer War decreased to 2% in 1914. (DK gave no comparable figures concerning action – presumably horses were used on the veldt much more than in F&F in 1914 – did the 8% also include artillery horses, for example, which presumably had a tougher workload in 1914).

During the early period of mobile warfare the cavalry were still important. (DK did not explain after 1914 or what role the cavalry assumed after entrenchment and the “race to the sea”).

According to the British Army Field Pocket Book of 1914, at the outset of war European cavalry consisted of the following strengths.

Austria 40,000 men

Germany 40,000 men plus 60,000 Reservists

Turkey 20,000 men

France 80,000 men

Russia 80,000 men (estimated)

Belgium 4,000 men

Britain 10,000 men plus 50,000 combined Reservists, Yeomanry and Colonial troops.

By Xmas 1914 there were 3 British Cavalry Divisions and 2 Indian Divisions in F&F, with a combined strength of approx. 20,000 men. A similar number of cavalrymen continued to serve in F&F until the Armistice.

An interesting point: the Lee Enfield Mk III was originally a cavalry designed weapon. It was so superior it was converted for use by traditional infantry.

By 1914, as with infantry, many mounted troops were trained marksman as a result of the additional proficiency pay this provided.