| 17th Battalion, Northumberland Fusiliers | |
|---|---|
| Active | 1914 - 1919 |
| Disbanded | 27 June 1919 |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Branch | British Army |
| Type | Infantry; later Pioneer and Railway Pioneer |
| Nickname(s) | NER Pioneers |
| Engagements | Battle of the Somme (1916)
Second Battle of the Somme (1918) Battle of Arras Battle of the Hindenburg Line Final Advance in Artois |
| Commanders | |
| Known Commanders | Lieutenant Colonel M. L. Pears Lieutenant Colonel W.D.V.O. King |
The 17th Battalion, Northumberland Fusiliers was one of the numerous Pals Battalions formed in the North East of England on Kitchener's call for men during the early parts of the First World War.[1] The battalion was raised by the North Eastern Railway (NER) and was the only pals battalions to be raised by a single company.
The battalion was formed of four companies; "A", "B", "C" and "D". Two further companies, acting as reserve companies, were also formed becoming "E" and "F". "E" and "F" Companies later became the 32nd (Reserve) Battalion, Northumberland Fusiliers (see below).
From its creation until October 1916, and again from September to November 1917, the battalion was part of the 32nd Division.[2] Between October 1916 and September 1917, and again from November 1917 to April 1918, the battalion was part of GHQ Railway Troops.[1] Between April and May 1918, the battalion was attached to the 1st Australian Division. Between May 1918 and their demobilisation after the war, the battalion was part of the 52nd (Lowland) Division.[3]