2nd Northamptonshire Yeomanry

Northamptonshire Yeomanry
Badge and service cap as worn at the outbreak of World War II
Active	1794–1946
Country	United Kingdom
Branch	British Army
Type	Yeomanry
Size	World War I Three Regiments World War II Two Regiments
Engagements	World War I First Battle of Ypres Battle of Neuve Chapelle Second Battle of Artois World War II Operation Overlord Operation Charnwood Operation Totalize Operation Varsity

The Northamptonshire Yeomanry was a Yeomanry regiment of the British Army, formed in 1794 as volunteer cavalry. It later served in an armoured role before being reduced to squadron level in 1956. It ceased to have a separate existence in 1969.

A Northamptonshire Imperial Yeomanry regiment was formed during the Boer War.

In accordance with the Territorial and Reserve Forces Act 1907 (7 Edw. 7, c.9) which brought the Territorial Force into being, the TF was intended to be a home defence force for service during wartime and members could not be compelled to serve outside the country. However, on the outbreak of war on 4 August 1914, many members volunteered for Imperial Service. Therefore, TF units were split in August and September 1914 into 1st Line (liable for overseas service) and 2nd Line (home service for those unable or unwilling to serve overseas) units. Later, a 3rd Line was formed to act as a reserve, providing trained replacements for the 1st and 2nd Line regiments.

On mobilisation in August 1914, the 1st Line regiment was attached to the Eastern Mounted Brigade, which was part of the 1st Mounted Division.

In November 1914, the regiment moved to France with the 8th Division. It remained with the 8th Division until April 1915, when it was split up:

This lasted until May 1916, when the Regiment reformed, becoming the 6th Corps Cavalry Regiment. In November 1917, it moved to Italy, becoming 14th Corps Cavalry.