"In 1914 on August 1, Germany plunged Europe into war by declaring war on Russia and next day invading France through Belgium...
...When the war started, Martial Law was immediately proclaimed in Jamaica and a body of troops called the Jamaica Reserve Regiment was formed for the defence of the island. Further, on August 14, a fund was launched which raised £20,000 by year-end to provide comforts for British soldiers.
On September 17, the Legislative Council voted £50.000 to purchase sugar for donation to England.
In 1915, by voluntary effort, Jamaica began to arrange to send soldiers to fight in the Great War and a contingent of 500 men was sent off on November 8. The Legislative Council took over the effort..."
From...
http://discoverjamaica.com/history6.htm