THE BATTLE OF WATERLOO, 18TH JUNE 1815
Blooded at the Battle of Quatre Bras two days before, The 92nd Regiment (The Gordon Highlanders) stayed in the reserve on the morning of the Battle of Waterloo on Sunday 18 June 1815. They nevertheless came under enemy artillery fire and had to move position to avoid further casualties. New losses meant that the Regiment numbered less than 300 men. Just before 3pm, the Gordons were ordered to stand to arms when a 3,000 strong French column threatened the British line.The French became aware of the advancing Gordons and were in the act of shouldering when they received a volley at 20 yards from the 92nd, which they then returned. Then the cavalry of the Scots Greys appeared, doubling round the flanks and through the openings made in the ranks of the Gordons. The pipers played. Both regiments cried out ‘Scotland forever!’ and charged together. Some Highlanders were knocked down by the horses, others managed to catch hold of the stirrups and legs of the Greys. Smashed by the Highlanders’ volley of musket fire and charged in front and flank by infantry and cavalry, the French resistance collapsed. In three minutes the column was completely destroyed and many were taken prisoner. It was one of the most famous moments in the Regiment’s history and one that has lived down the ages. The 92nd saw further action later in the day; the Regiment’s strength diminished to fewer than 200 by the time night fell.
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