6 April 1812 - The Storming of Badajoz. Wellington orders his men to storm the French held fortress of Badajoz in Spain. What follows is one of the bloodiest engagements of the Peninsular War, followed by several days of looting, murder and rape by the allied troops.

The siege had started on 16 March, and progressed by the digging of trenches, the taking of outer works, and bombardment of the walls, all during poor weather. By 6 April there were 3 practicable breaches & Wellington ordered the attack for that night.

The 4th & Light Divisions were tasked with assaulting breaches. 5th Division was to make a diversionary attack further west. 3rd Division was to attempt the capture the old castle by escalade. Assault scheduled for 7pm but was delayed until 10pm, giving French time to prepare.

4th & Light Divs jump down into water-filled ditches before climbing up breach, while French throw grenades, blow mines & keep up incessant musket & cannon fire. Attack after attack is driven back with very heavy casualties. Their assault fails.

3rd Division, led by 5/60th, cross a stream to attack the castle. While the riflemen suppress the defenders redcoats climb ladders. Initial attempts fail as French defend fiercely but 5th Foot manage to gain foothold on walls. Castle taken but takes time for troops to enter town.

Attack of 5th Division decisive. Arrive late. Defenders drawn away by other attacks. Desperate fighting but manage to get onto walls. Driven back but counter attack. Charge into streets behind the main breaches. Resistance crumbles and 4th & Light can at last enter town.

Allied losses 806 KIA, 2855 wounded. Troops search town for loot, drink & women. Violence persists for several days. Wellington weeps at sight of dead and wounded in breaches.