The 1st Battalion (49th Foot) was raised in 1714, and had nearly eighty
years West Indian and American service. On returning, the regiment
was employed in subduing the mutiny in the Navy at the Nore, and
then as Marines took part in the naval battle of Copenhagen. In 1803
the regiment again went to America, taking part in the operations
against the United States. Active service in South Africa, China, and
the Crimea added further to the good name of the regiment, the title
"Royal" being bestowed for conspicuous gallantry at the action of
Tofrek in the Sudan in 1885. The 2nd Battalion (66th Foot) was raised
in 1755, and has an equally glorious record, being in 1814-16 reputed
to be the finest and best disciplined regiment in Bengal. In the Afghan
War the regiment fought at Maiwand, where their heroic stand, while
suffering fearful losses, is remembered with pride in the Army.
The regiment is sometimes referred to as "The Biscuit Boys" on account
of their depot being at Reading.
[Illustration]
(_Depot_, Maidstone.)
(_Record Office_, Hounslow.)