In peace and war, and whether conscripts or volunteers, the soldiers from Wolverhampton area have always done their bit.
They have fought in the world wars and their duties have taken them to far-flung hotspots. Many served in the local regiment, the South Staffords, a unit which, like most of those who wore its badge, has passed into history, though proud memories endure.
Today we take foreign travel for granted, but for many soldiers of yesteryear their spell in the Army saw them travel abroad for the first time in a great adventure, although in wartime or times of strife what greeted them was no bed of roses, and the novelty would pall in any event after years away from their loved ones. Other aspects like the discipline, and especially the camaraderie, would shape many a young life.
Soldiers of Wolverhampton, we salute you.
Step back to 1983 and explore Wolverhampton life through these archive pictures.
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13. Cyprus duties were no holiday
It ain't half hot, mum... South Staffs soldiers were sent to deal with what was termed the Cyprus Emergency in 1956. With batons and shields, these men are ready for trouble. | Express & Star archive
14. Enjoying a cuppa
Gunner H Hughes, of Norton East Road, Norton Canes, enjoys a cup of tea during a rest from duty. The recreation hut shown in this picture was furnished with money received from the people of Palestine. Unfortunately this photo from our archive bears no date, and doesn't give the location, but probably it was in Palestine during, or soon after, the war. Presumably Hughes is the one having the tea poured for him. | Express & Star archive