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The 95th (Rifle) Regiment of Foot are a
Battle Re-enactment and Living History society. As a regiment we
re-enact the lives of soldiers and camp followers during the
Napoleonic Wars, from dramatic battles to period encampments. We
always welcome new members and as such our group has evolved and
grown steadily in numbers since its formation to become one of the
largest Napoleonic re-enactment groups in the UK. We have
re-enactors of many years service and experience, combining
enthusiasm with knowledge to ensure we keep uniform, equipment and
performance standards high. As such we have gained the respect of
the British Army, The National Trust, English Heritage and many
other sponsors including educational establishments and companies
within the film industry (including the BBC and Channel 4).
There are three battalions of 95th Rifles in the Napoleonic
Association, so what makes us different? Each battalion has its own
merits. We have always taken great pride in our performance and
appearance, our commitment to our membership and sponsors and the
camaraderie that runs through our ranks and across our tent lines.
With the fundamental enjoyment of our members in mind we offer
everyone the chance to live the period and encourage all members to
get involved in the organisation and decision making from an equal
footing. As a non-profit making society the funds raised by the many
appearances of our people throughout the year are invested straight
back into the enjoyment of their hobby.
We have recently expanded our society with the deployment of both
Rocket and Horse Artillery Batteries to support the rifle company,
demonstrating our commitment to diversity in a unique and
flourishing society.
For more information please visit our websites (www.95thrifles.com
&
www.horseartillery.co.uk) and be sure to take a look at our
video footage.
A little history…
After the gruelling experiences of the Peninsular war took its toll
on the 95th a 3rd Battalion was formed, they had advanced
battlefield training to compensate for "lessons learnt" in the
Field.
The 3rd Battalion was probably the most experienced unit of the
Regiment for in its short life span. It took part in operations and
Battles in Portugal, Spain and the invasion of France in 1814, after
this it was to be drafted to the USA to fight at New Orleans in 1815
- this was a Disaster for the British Force - but only the 95th and
Royal Marines managed to reach and break the American defensive
lines - saying something for the advanced battle tactics and
Discipline of the troops.
With the return of Napoleon in 1815 the British forces were rushed
to Belgium to fight at Waterloo, The 3rd Battalion hard pressed
after the Failed USA Campaign, found them selves in the thick of the
Fighting again - only two Companies were present at Waterloo they
formed part of Lt General Sir Henry Clintons 2nd British Infantry
Division. In the later stages of the Battle they played a major role
in defeating the French Imperial Guard. An action packed Battalion
to say the least.
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