1773

New York

The tensions between the American colonies and Great Britain becoming steadily more pronounced, the 23rd, who had riot-control experience, arrived in New York City.

1774

Boston

Moved to Boston under command of General Gage

April 1775

Battles of Lexington and Concord

The regiment took part in the Battles of Lexington and Concord as part of Lord Percy’s relief column.

16th June, 1775

Bunker Hill

Losses to the 23rd’s Grenadier & Light Infantry companies were extremely heavy, the former only having five men left who were not killed or wounded, after charging a militia of New Hampshire sharpshooters. Lt. Colonel Benjamin Bernard receives hip wound. It is reliably reported by several sources that the regimental goat took part in the assault.

27th August, 1776

Battle of Long Island

Because of Lt. Colonel Benjamin Bernard’s injury, the 23rd was led by Capt. Grey Grove, who was one of the 7 killed. With 28 wounded, total casualties to the 23rd were 35.

18th October, 1776

Battle of Pell’s Point

28th October, 1776

Battle of White Plains

16th November, 1776

Battle of Fort Washington

12th April, 1777

Battle of Ridgefield

Took part in the Danbury, Connecticut raids in which as the rearguard, they distinguished themselves once more by holding off several determined attacks of overwhelming American forces commanded by Benedict Arnold.

3rd September, 1777

Battle of Cooch’s Bridge

11th September, 1777

Battle of Brandywine

The 23rd saw fierce combat. The Fusiliers were part of the feinted frontal assault, while the Lights were included in Cornwallis’ 18 mile flanking move, and after being met with grapeshot, were part of the final assault at Chad’s Ford.

4th October, 1777

Battle of Germantown

Alongside the 4th, the 23rd Light helped repel a foggy morning surprise attack and defended British headquarters.

28th June, 1778

Battle of Monmouth Courthouse

After which the Grenadier Company, which had lost a third of its strength, received the thanks of Brigadier General Sir William Meadows.

Late Summer /Early Fall 1778

Marines against France

The Royal Welch Fusiliers serve as marines aboard the fleet during several inconclusive engagements with the French fleet.

Following their return to New York, Admiral Lord Howe was pleased “to present his most particular thanks to the officers and soldiers of the three companies of the Royal Welch Fusiliers for their spirited and gallant behavior on board the ships that had engaged the enemy, and to the whole regiment for its conduct during the time it served on board the fleet.”

Spring 1779

Hudson Valley Raids

July 1779

Tryon’s Raids

March –May, 1780

Siege of Charlestown

16th August, 1780

Battle of Camden

Although outnumbered, Cornwallis’ force was able to break the American militia, and the Royal Welch Fusiliers and the 33rd Regiment of Foot were able to turn the American flank resulting in a precipitous American retreat after forty five minutes of stubborn resistance.

February 1781

Occupation of Hillsborough

Cornwallis’ forces arrive at Hillsborough seeking provisions and recruits.

15th March, 1781

Battle of Guilford Courthouse

The Royal Welch Fusiliers were in the forefront of the charges that broke through two successive American lines. The regiment lost a third of its officers in the battle.

28th September – 19th October, 1781

Siege of Yorktown

During the siege, the Royal Welch Fusiliers held their redoubt against overwhelming odds, and gaining the respect of their foes. The redoubt still exists at the Yorktown Battlefield National Park  and is named the Fusilier Redoubt in honor of the regiment’s brave stand.

Following the siege, the 23rd was the only British regiment not to surrender its colours, which were smuggled out by a junior officer.