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Kevin Ashman
Theheritagemint@gmail.com
When most people hear the word ZULU, they are usually transported to that wonderful film from 1964 starring legendary actors, Michael Caine and Stanley Baker showing the magnificent defence of a small outpost called Rorke’s Drift by just over a hundred British and native soldiers against the might of the Zulu army. The film has since gone on to become a firm favourite with viewers all around the world and is still watched to this day by new generations, equally enthralled by the splendour and bravery on display that day. Of course, what many might not realise is that the film is based on actual events and even allowing for artistic license, the bravery reflected within the story still echoes to this day, almost 143 years later.
The battle has gone down in folklore, both with the British and Zulu communities and over the past few years, relationships between the British regiments involved and the Zulu nation have grown stronger, with old enemies becoming the best of friends.
Of course, those that took part have long gone but the celebrations and memories have been passed down through the generations to be remembered right up to the present day. The actual regiments who fought that day no longer exist, with the South Wales Borders in particular going through various merges to become the Royal Regiment of Wales and ultimately, The Royal Welsh Regiment. Today, in Brecon, South Wales, there is a museum dedicated to The Royal Welsh, displaying various items and memorabilia from the actual battle.
