Document D

King George V's Message to British Troops, 12 August 1914

With Britain's entry into the First World War on 4 August 1914 the
British monarch, King George V, sent a personal message to the first
departing troops of the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) led by Sir John
French, en route for Flanders and France.
Reproduced below is the text of King George V's message, in which he
expresses his confidence that his troops will do their duty - and ensure
eventual victory against the Central Powers.
King George V's Message to Departing British Expeditionary
Force
My message to the troops of the Expeditionary Force. Aug. 12th 1914.
You are leaving home to fight for the safety and honor of my Empire.
Belgium, whose country we are pledged to defend, has been attacked
and France is about to be invaded by the same powerful foe.
I have implicit confidence in you my soldiers. Duty is your watchword,
and I know your duty will be nobly done.
I shall follow your every movement with deepest interest and mark
with eager satisfaction your daily progress, indeed your welfare will
never be absent from my thoughts.
I pray God to bless you and guard you and bring you back victorious.

Guided Questions for Document

1. Who wrote this document?

2. When was it written?

3. Why was it written?

5. Would this author be biased?

6. How does the author rationalize going to war?

7. How does the author describe the soldiers going to war?

8. Hearing this message, would you be motivated to join the army?