The National Army Museum will host a talk by David Willey of the Tank Museum on 22 November 2024 in which he will highlight how the Battle of Cambrai became the defining moment for the newly formed Tank Corps during the First World War.
The Battle of Cambrai (1917) is often remembered for its innovative artillery tactics and the effective use of close air support for ground forces. However, it is most famously known for the remarkable success of the initial tank attack.
While the outcome of the battle could be regarded as a draw, the disappointment following the early triumph prompted an inquiry and led to blame among the commanders involved. Despite this, Cambrai remains a significant battle that the Royal Tank Regiment commemorates and celebrates to this day.
David Willey is a curator at the Tank Museum. The Tank Museum tells the story of the tank and those who served in them. Based in Bovington Camp, Dorset – the training centre that was established in 1916 to train the crews for the new British weapon – the Museum is the oldest tank collection in the world and houses over 300 vehicles.
For more information and on how to book: https://www.nam.ac.uk/whats-on/cambrai-making-tank-corps
