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Auction: 22002 - Orders, Decorations and Medals
Lot: 1

Military General Service 1793-1814, 1 clasp, Albuhera (W. Wainwright, Serjt 29th Foot), on original silk riband mounted with silver-coloured buckle, extremely fine

William Wainwright is confirmed on the Medal Roll with entitlement to this medal and clasp as a Sergeant with the 29th (Worcestershire) Regiment of Foot. At the Battle of Albuera (16 May 1811) the 29th played a prominent part in the bloodiest battle of the Peninsular War, which the French came very close to winning.
As one of three regiments in Major-General Hoghton's 2nd Brigade, the 29th (along with the 48th and 57th) made a name for themselves by standing firm against a vast French infantry assault of over 8,000 men: the 2nd Brigade numbered a mere 1,650. Unsurprisingly the resulting casualties were horrific; Hoghton himself was killed and over 1000 of his men became casualties. As testament to their brave action the numbers speak for themselves: the 29th started the battle with 31 officers and 476 other-ranks; by the end of the day a mere 144 all-ranks remained standing, their Commanding Officer had been mortally wounded, and Ensigns Vance and Furnace were killed whilst gallantly defending the Regimental Colours.

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Sold for
£3,800

Starting price
£1200