THE DUKE OF CORNWALL'S LIGHT INFANTRY
Raised in 1702. In its early history it saw much varied service as Marines. The 2nd Battalion (46th Foot) in 1777 was called the "Red Feathers," from the following circumstances. The light company took part in an attack against General Wayne's Brigade, near Brandywine Creek, in which the Americans were surprised and utterly defeated. The Americans vowed vengeance and swore that they would give no quarter; the soldiers of the light company stained their feathers red as a distinguishing mark, so that the enemy could easily see whom to attack. This badge is still preserved in the brass feather and red cloth of the helmet and cap badge. They are also called "The Lacedemonians." The heroic defence of the Lucknow Residency, and the tragic fate of the detachment under Captain Moore, at Cawnpore, are treasured memories. The 46th are also known as "Murray's Bucks," "The Surprisers," and "The Doc's" (from the initials).
(Depot, Halifax.)
(Record Office, York.)
The Elephant, superscribed "Hindoostan."
"Dettingen," "Mysore," "Seringapatam," "Ally Ghur," "Delhi, 1803," "Leswarree," "Deig," "Corunna," "Nive," "Peninsula," "Waterloo," "Alma," "Inkerman," "Sevastopol," "Abyssinia," "Relief of Kimberley," "Paardeberg," "South Africa, 1900-02."
Motto: Virtutis fortuna comes (Fortune accompanies honour).
Uniform, Scarlet.