[2]. M.I. at Waterloo. The following touching verses to the memory of this gallant officer were published soon after his death:—
“Weep not; he died as heroes die,
The death permitted to the brave;
Mourn not; he lies where soldiers lie,
And valour envies such a grave.
“His was the love of bold emprise,
Of soldier’s hardships, soldier’s fame!
And his the wish by arms to rise,
And gain a proud, a deathless name.”
[3]. Bn. 1st Feb., 1781. 4th son of John Thackwell, of Moreton Court, co. Worcester, and a direct descendant of Rev. Thos. Thackwell, rector of Waterperry, co. Oxford, in 1607. Served in Ireland during the rebellion. Joined the 15th Lt. Dgns. as a cornet in 1800, and served 32 years in that regt., during twelve of which he held the command. During the Par. war he boldly attacked and forced back at Granada 200 French dgns. with 50 men of his regt., making several prisoners, for which he was recommended for a bt. majority. At Waterloo, when charging with his regt., Thackwell was wounded in the fore-arm of his left arm, “but he instantly seized the bridle with his right hand, in which was his sword, and still dashed on at the head of his regt., the command of which had devolved upon him. Another shot took effect on same arm, but he immediately seized the bridle with his teeth.” At the close of the day his left arm was amputated close to the shoulder. Proceeded to India in 1837 as Col. of 3rd Lt. Dgns. Distinguished himself in the Afghan, Gwalior, and Sutlej campaigns. Made a K.C.B. for Ghuznee. Commanded the cavalry in the Punjaub campaign. He was a G.C.B. and K.H., Col.-in-Chf. 16th Lancers, and Inspector-General of Cavalry in 1854. M., 29th July, 1825, Maria, eldest dau. of Francis Roche, of Rochemount, co. Cork, and had issue. D. at Aghada Hall, co. Cork, 8th April, 1859.