This Day in History: 1880-08-09

After the British defeat at Maiwand in Afghanistan, a column consisting of 3 infantry and one cavalry brigades was formed under General Sir Frederick Roberts to relieve the besieged garrison at Kandahar. It left Kabul on this day. The 2nd Goorkhas were part of 1st Infantry Brigade under Brigadier General Macpherson, their former Commandant. The column covered 515km in 23 days in average daytime temperatures of 38°C.  Click here to read a more detailed account.

The Battle of Kandahar