Staff officers of the Upper Burma Field Force, 1885

Photograph, 3rd Burma War, 1885-1888.

Following trade and border disputes, in the Autumn of 1885 three brigades, under the overall command of Major-General Sir Harry Prendergast, were mobilised to occupy Upper Burma. With the addition of supporting logistic, engineering and medical units, the Upper Burma Field Force amounted to nearly 10,000 British and Indian soldiers.

Using around low-draft steamers, many of which towed barges, the field force advanced up the River Irrawaddy towards Mandalay at such a speed that the Burmese had little chance to organise effective resistance.

One of 12 photographs of portraits and groups.