The Royal Hong Kong Regiment, essentially a part time volunteer force were formed in May 1854 when the Crimean War led to a reduction of British military presence and 99 citizens volunteered to defend Hong Kong.Since 1878 the Volunteers has become a permanent military force in Hong Kong. In 1864 and 1899 the Volunteers were called out to help maintain law and order and to provide security to Hong Kong. During World War 1 the Volunteers were the only military unit in Hong Kong and were actively engaged in guard and partol duties. In 1920 the Volunteers were renamed the Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Crops and in December 1941 they met their severest test in the Battle of Hong Kong against the invading Japanese forces. Out of the moblished strength of 2,200 all ranks, 289 were listed as missing or killed and many others became POW. The services of the Defence Corps were later recongnized by the award of 19 decorations, 18 mentions-in-despatches for gallantry and good services, and by the award of the Battle Honour " Hong Kong" in 1957. In 1949 the Volunteers were reformed as the Hong Kong Regiment and became part of the Hong Kong Defence Force. It was awarded the "Royal" title in 1970 and the words "the Volunteers" were incroporated into the Regiment's title. The Regiment was reorganized as a light reconnaissance unit and a single Guidon was presented in 1971. The Regiment was deployed during the 6 months long disburbances in Hong Kong in 1967. In 1979 and 1980 its was twice called out to assist the civil authorities over the problem of illegal immigration. Since then the Regiment has played an active role in anti-illegal immigration duties in support of the Regular Army and the police. The Regiment also played an important role in manning temporary camp accommodation for Vietnamese boat people. This operation at Shek Kwu Chau lasted for 5 months form June to November,1991. For 141 year the Regiment has played a significant role in maintaining stability and security of Hong Kong. The Regiment was disband in September 1995.