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Auction: 21003 - Orders, Decorations and Medals
Lot: 10

Sold by Order of a Direct Descendant

Waterloo 1815 (Ensign George Browne, 32nd Regiment Foot), replacement split-ring suspension, naming somewhat worn in places, otherwise about very fine

George Browne served in Captain Charles Hawes's Company of the 32nd (Cornwall) Regiment of Foot at Waterloo. Browne was one of only eight ensigns in the battalion during the Hundred Days Campaign and, of a total of 37 officers, was one of only twelve left unscathed by shot, shell or sabre at the conclusion of the battle.

As these figures clearly indicate, the 32nd saw heavy fighting over 16 - 18 June 1815; part of Sir James Kempt's 8th British Brigade in Sir Thomas Picton's 5th Infantry Division, at Waterloo they were stationed around the centre and left of the Allied line - undoubtedly the most exposed and dangerous part of Wellington's position. The 32nd endured the worst of fire from the French 'Grand Battery', participated in the defeat of d'Erlon's vast infantry assault (during which time Picton was shot dead and carried off the field by two men of the regiment) and stood solidly in square for several hours repulsing French cavalry charges.
The young Ensign Browne (commissioned 10 June 1813) was promoted Lieutenant in 1819, Captain 1832, Brevet-Major in 1838 and is noted as still serving with the 32nd in 1846.

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Sold for
£2,800

Starting price
£1200