Tribute to the 95th Rifles by Chris Collingwood [Print]

In August 1808 the 2nd battalion of the 95th Rifles were part of the expedition commanded by Sir Arthur Wellesley to Portugal and covered the landings at Mondego Bay. On 15th August during a skirmish at Obidos, they had the distinction of firing the first shots of the Peninsular War against the French. The Rifles were trained to think quickly and by themselves in dangerous situations, they were also taught to work and fight together in pairs while firing harassing and well aimed shots at the enemy. The Baker rifle which the 95th used was an accurate weapon for its day, with reported kills being taken up to 270 metres away. During the Peninsular War, Rifleman Thomas Plunkett of the 1st Battalion, 95th Rifles, shot the French General Auguste-Marie-Francois Colbert at a range that may have been even greater. Rifleman Thomas Plunkett then shot a second French officer who rode to the general's aid.