In commemoration of the gallantry displayed in this prolonged action, the Seventy-first subsequently received the royal authority to bear the words “Fuentes d’Onor” on the regimental colour and appointments.
The following letter from Lord Fitzroy Somerset will serve to show the opinion entertained by Lord Wellington of the conduct of the Seventy-first on this occasion.
“Villa Formosa, 8th May, 1811.
“Sir,
“Lord Wellington being highly gratified with the conduct of the Seventy-first Regiment, has directed me to request that you will transmit to me the name of a non-commissioned officer who may be eligible for a commission, in order that his Lordship may recommend him for an Ensigncy on the present occasion.
“I have the honour to be, Sir,
“Your most obedient servant,
“Fitzroy Somerset.
“Lieut.-Colonel
“The Honourable Henry Cadogan,
“Seventy-first Regiment.”
According to his Lordship’s recommendation, Quartermaster-Sergeant William Gavin was shortly afterwards promoted to an ensigncy in the regiment.
The Seventy-first upon the 14th returned to their old quarters at Albergaria, and remained there until the 26th of May, when the brigade was ordered to the Alemtejo frontier, as a reinforcement to Marshal Sir William Beresford’s army, at this time besieging Badajoz, and threatened by the advance of Marshal Soult from the south of Spain.
2nd bat.