92nd Regiment of Foot (Donegal Light Infantry)

The 92nd Regiment of Foot (Donegal Light Infantry) was an infantry regiment of the British Army, raised in 1793. It saw extensive service during the Napoleonic Wars, including notable actions in Egypt, the Peninsular War, and at the Battle of Waterloo.

History:

Raised by William Fullarton of Fullarton in 1793 as part of the British Army's response to the French Revolutionary Wars, the regiment was initially designated Fullarton's Highlanders. Shortly after its formation, it was redesignated as the 92nd Regiment of Foot. The regiment was initially composed largely of men recruited from the Donegal region of Ireland.

Service:

The 92nd served in various campaigns and locations, including:

• Egypt (1801): The regiment participated in the British expedition to Egypt, fighting against French forces following Napoleon's invasion.

• Peninsular War (1808-1814): The 92nd played a significant role in the Peninsular War, fighting alongside British and Portuguese forces against the French in Spain and Portugal. They saw action in numerous battles, including the Battle of Vimeiro, the Battle of Corunna, the Battle of Fuentes de Oñoro, the Battle of Nive, and the Battle of Orthez.

• Waterloo Campaign (1815): The 92nd was present at the Battle of Quatre Bras and the Battle of Waterloo, where it distinguished itself in fierce fighting against Napoleon's army. The regiment suffered heavy casualties during the campaign.

Post-Napoleonic Wars:

Following the Napoleonic Wars, the 92nd served in various locations within the British Empire, including garrison duty in Ireland and other parts of the world.

Amalgamation:

In 1881, as part of the Childers Reforms, the 92nd Regiment of Foot was amalgamated with the 75th (Stirlingshire) Regiment of Foot to form the 2nd Battalion, Gordon Highlanders.

Nicknames and Distinctions:

Due to its initial recruitment from the Donegal region, the regiment was associated with Donegal and was officially designated as the Donegal Light Infantry. The regiment earned numerous battle honours throughout its history, reflecting its distinguished service in various campaigns.