Scarlet Pimpernel
Staff Sergeant
- Joined
- Jan 28, 2010
- Messages
- 844
This is certainly a very fine regiment to add to the mix for many reasons, including Waterloo. Among other things, they were the unit that Wellington fled to to escape French cavalry at Quatre Bras I love the painting of that shown in Wellington's Regiments). Of course, WHENwe get to the Peninsula, they can be featured from Coruna to Orthes, with many notable contributions along the way. They fought with distinction at Fuentes de Onoro and helped rout the surprised French force at Arroyo dos Molinos. They also distinquished themselves at Alvarez, becoming one of the few units to earn a battle honor there and fought bravely at Vittoria. In July of 1813 a mere half battalion of the 92nd held back an entire French division at the pass at Maya, suffering over 500 casualties and earning a "valour of Thermopylae" accollade. Later in November, Cameron led his men successfully to take and later hold some of the redoubts at Nivelle and they again impressed Wellington at Arriverete. Probably less than a couple hundred of these veterans remained by Waterloo but they were no doubt a tough and impressive lot. So WHENwe get to the Peninsula, I'd say they will fit in just fine.
Thanks for that concise and accurate synopsis! Right on the mark...I think some folks have a tendency to get hung up on the Lady Butler paintings of Waterloo and stop their investigation of the Regt there. But, you know, you mentioned John Cameron (and I agree with you...great commander), but no one ever mentions James Cameron and the 79th! Also at Quatre Bras and took almost as many casualities as the 92nd over the three day period...sigh...I know manufacturers can't represent everyone, but I sure wish someone would give a little attention to the Cameronians. Is it that extra stripe in the kilt that puts them off?!