87th Brigade (United Kingdom)

The 87th Brigade was a British Army infantry brigade that existed during both World War I and World War II.

World War I

The 87th Brigade was a second-line Territorial Force brigade formed in September 1914 as part of the 29th Division. It was composed of battalions from several regiments, predominantly from the south and west of England. The brigade served on the Western Front for the duration of the war. Its constituent battalions underwent numerous changes throughout the conflict due to battlefield casualties and reorganizations within the British Expeditionary Force. The brigade participated in many major battles including the Battle of the Somme and the Third Battle of Ypres.

World War II

The 87th Brigade was reformed during World War II, and formed part of the 30th Infantry Division. It initially served in a home defence role in the United Kingdom. Later, it was deployed overseas and fought in the North-West Europe campaign from D-Day onwards. The brigade participated in operations to liberate France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, eventually advancing into Germany. Its battalions again saw frequent changes in composition throughout the war.

Disbandment

The 87th Brigade was disbanded at the end of both World War I and World War II. Its lineage is not currently continued within the modern British Army structure.