Battle of Albuera

[wattsy]

Another British military anniversary, today is the 202nd anniversary of the Battle of Albuera in the Peninsular War, which I first read about in a book called Impossible Victories (well worth a read if you can find it, especially if you're a bit of a history buff like I am). It's notable because it was won not by tactical brilliance but by the British soldiers refusal to withdraw despite suffering almost 45% casualties, prompting one of my favourite quotes from history from Marshal Soult in his report;

"There is no beating these troops, in spite of their generals. I always thought they were bad soldiers, now I am sure of it. I had turned their right, pierced their centre and everywhere victory was mine – but they did not know how to run!"

Just sharing a bit of history from some often forgotten soldiers.
Cheers
Matt

 

[John Fenna]

"but by god they frighten ME!"
OK different battle but still the same fighting spirit

 

[British Red]

I rather liked Wellsley's comment when french officers turned their back on him at a Vienna ball and a lady apologised for their rudeness

I have seen their backs before madam

 

[ReamviThantos]

I rather liked Wellsley's comment when french officers turned their back on him at a Vienna ball and a lady apologised for their rudeness

............................

 

[leon-1]

"Die Hard the 57th, Die Hard"

57th of foot, the Middlesex regiment, later to become the Queens Regiment and then the PWRR. I had the honor of serving with both. It is one of the Regiments regimental days.

 

[woof]

Thanks wattsy.

Rob

 

[Badger74]

Similar things were said about the English soldiers in Spain in the 15th Century.