The Retreat to Corunna, The Rearguard 1st Battalion, 95th Rifles, The Rifle Brigade, 1809

After artist 'R.F.', 1867.

In 1808 Sir John Moore's army had advanced deep into Spain, planning to co-operate with Spanish forces against the French, but the surrender of Madrid and the arrival of Napoleon with a large army forced him to retreat toward the northern port of Corunna. The retreat was marked by foul weather, frequent skirmishing, long marches and widespread drunkeness. Despite this the remnants of Moore's army reached the coast. On 16 January 1809 he defeated his pursuers at Corunna, but was killed in the battle. Nevertheless, this victory enabled his exhausted army to be evacuated by the Royal Navy.