Two Years on Trek: Being Some Account of the Royal Sussex Regiment in South Africa

A seasoned officer’s voice guides listeners through the first grueling months of the South African campaign, where the Royal Sussex Regiment marches from Bloemfonte­in into a hostile landscape of rugged rivers and open veld. The narrative captures the raw challenges of long treks, makeshift supply raids, and the camaraderie forged in the heat of early skirmishes, all while painting vivid pictures of the men’s determination and the stark terrain.

Beyond the battlefield, the story reveals the practical ingenuity of its author—an officer famed for turning scarce resources into vital comforts for his troops. Listeners hear anecdotes of daring wagon raids for clothing, impromptu field kitchens, and the unyielding spirit that kept the unit moving forward despite fatigue and hunger. This first act offers a compelling glimpse into the daily grind of imperial warfare, marked by both hardship and the quiet heroism of ordinary soldiers.