Dutch Marines

Dutch and French Marines Capture Sheerness

The previous page was: "D.E.M.S. 1940"

The Dutch Marines joined the sea soldiers of the world in 1665. They were formed when the Dutch Wars with England were at their height and the big sailing ships fought their ferocious battles out on the open seas.

Regiment de Marines the Royal Netherlands Marine Corps has been in existence longer than any other of the Netherlands armed forces. They are entrusted with the security of the Netherlands.

The Dutch Marines have a distinguished history which covers many parts of the world. 'Qua Patet Orbis' is their motto it means: 'wherever the world extends.'

In 1667 the Regiment de Marines played a prominent part in the large Dutch and French 'Raid on the Medway'; often called the 'Battle of Chatham' or the 'Battle of Medway'.

It was a resounding success taking the English totally unaware. The attack was on the largest English Naval shipyard, where ships were laid up.

The Chatham Dockyards were the main English naval base.

D.E.M.S. 1940

'Raid on the Medway'

After bombarding Sheerness the combined forces of the Dutch and French marines went ashore and captured Sheerness.

They made their way up the river Medway to Chatham with the Regiment de Marines leading the way.

They burnt out three capital ships and eleven lesser vessels. They towed away the 'Unity' and the 'Royal Charles'.

It is considered to be the greatest defeat in English naval history.

The English believed that the Dutch would not dare to launch an expedition in the London Area. They were also under the impression the French would not attack, they had too many internal problems.

The defeat in the 'Battle of Chatham' came as a most embarrassing surprise. When the King and the Duke of York heard the news they looked at each other and burst out laughing.

Fortifications were immediately put into operation with stakes, heavy chains and large gun ships put into suitable positions.

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Modern-day Royal Netherlands Navy and Corps

Modern-day Royal Netherlands Navy and Corps responsibilities include the provision of physical, military and ceremonial training.

The marine band of the Royal Netherlands Navy are travelling ambassadors for the Netherlands. The 1st Amphibious Combat Group (1ACG) are fully trained and are fitted out for operations in mountain and artic warfare.

(1ACG) is fully integrated into the 3rd Commando Brigade Royal Marines. They both train in Norway along with the Norwegian Army each year from January to the end of March in temperatures of minus forty degrees or lower.

The next Link below will be: "Royal Marine Female Warrior"

www.Dutch Marines.org Dutch Marines Royal Marine Female Warrior

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