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They were the inspiration for Bernard Cornwell’s heroic ‘Chosen Men’ in the Sharpe series, but who were the real soldiers of the 95th Rifles?

From their green jackets to their trusty Baker Rifles, the men of the regiment were part of a new breed of light infantry. With some effort at camouflage, and weapons with greater accuracy, they made a huge impact on the Peninsular War, building on many tactics and techniques used against the British during the American War of Independence.

This issue, we’re thrilled to have on board two members of the 95th Rifles re-enactment society, who each have unique experience re-creating the regiment in action with a sharpshooter’s accuracy.

“The enemy opened a fire of musketry from a windmill on a rising ground… however, a rapid advance of the Riflemen drew the French from all points of the posts” – Lieutenant John Cox, 95th Rifles, on the Battle of Obidos