British Expeditionary Force

The British Expeditionary Force (BEF) was the initial deployment of British military forces sent to France at the start of World War I in 1914. Comprising professional soldiers, it aimed to support France against the advancing German Army. The BEF played a crucial role in the early battles of the war, including the First Battle of the Marne, helping to stop the German advance toward Paris. Despite suffering heavy casualties, the BEF’s actions were significant in shaping the war's early course and establishing Britain's military presence on the Western Front.