Introduction
A joint 3 Para and Afghan Army patrol, Helmand, June 2006. NAM 2006-10-3-18
Thousands of British troops are currently serving in the Helmand province of Afghanistan. Their main role is to build stability and security across the country by fighting militant Taleban and insurgent groups.
But they are also targeting the drugs trade that funds many rebels. Helmand produces nearly 20% of the world's opium. Such a dual operational role for the Army is by no means new.
Law and Order
From its earliest years the Army has fought crime and disorder alongside its more familiar tasks on the battlefield. As well as their conventional military duties, soldiers have acted as peace-keepers, policemen, administrators and customs men.
An officer of the Buckinghamshire Yeomanry, c1796. NAM 1968-05-4
Their tasks have ranged from the suppression of smuggling and piracy to the fight against the notorious Thugee robber cult and supporting the civil power in times of political and social crisis. Many of these activities helped underpin the entire structure of the British trading empire. Indeed, for much of our history the Army was in effect an 'Imperial police force'.
Policing the world
Soldier of the 1st Battalion The Middlesex Regiment in riot gear, Cyprus, 1956.
NAM 1992-08-65-9
On many occasions the Army's intervention in these areas has been welcomed by the different cultures and societies in which it has operated. At home and abroad the Army has always been there to maintain law and order, protect British citizens and safeguard trade.
But sometimes, as in Afghanistan today, the Army's interventions have caused deep resentment. They have provoked resistance among those who see such actions as a threat to their status, cultural traditions or way of life.
It would be true to say that these 'non-military' tasks have always been more controversial than the Army's conventional duties. Here we take a look at many of these remarkable episodes.
