The Volunteer Battalions provided service companies to serve alongside the Regulars during the Second Boer War. Despite the large number who volunteered, only a half company was sent from the two battalions of the 1st VB. The contingent left Birmingham on 17 January 1900 and joined the 2nd Bn Royal Warwickshires, taking part in six actions at Elandsfontein, Pretoria, Pienaarsport, Diamond Hill, Edendale and Belfast. The 58-strong detachment suffered seven casualties, all but one dying from sickness. The battalion earned its first Battle Honour: South Africa 1900–02.