John Byne Skerrett facts for kids

Major-General John Byne Skerrett (1777–10 March 1814) was a British army officer. He is known for his role in the Peninsular War. This was a big conflict in Europe during the Napoleonic Wars.

Life and Military Career

Early Life and Joining the Army

John Byne Skerrett was born around 1778 in Cheshire, England. He was the only son of Lieutenant General John Nicholas Skerrett. John Byne Skerrett joined the British Army at a young age. He became an ensign in the 99th Regiment of Foot in 1783. Over the years, he moved up through different ranks. He became a major in 1798 and a lieutenant-colonel in 1800. By 1813, he had earned the rank of major-general.

Fighting in the Peninsular War

Skerrett played an important part in the Peninsular War. This war was fought in Spain and Portugal. In 1809, he was with his regiment in Cádiz, Spain. He was given command of the 2nd British Brigade. This group included soldiers from the 47th (Lancashire) Regiment and Portuguese infantry.

Skerrett and his soldiers were sent to help the Spanish army. They tried to help the city of Tarragona, which was under attack. Later, Skerrett and his group returned to Cádiz.

Defending Tarifa

One of Skerrett's most famous actions was at the Siege of Tarifa. This happened in 1811 and 1812. He was the commander of the British forces defending the town. His leadership helped the defenders hold out against the attacking French army. He also took part in the Battle of the Triana Bridge in 1812.

Final Battle and Legacy

From 1813 to 1814, Skerrett served in the Netherlands. He was a brigade commander under Sir Thomas Graham. Sadly, Major-General Skerrett died in 1814. He was killed during an attack on Bergen op Zoom.

There are memorials to John Byne Skerrett in England. One is in the north transept of St Paul's Cathedral in London. Another memorial was put up by his mother in Newcastle Cathedral.

See also

In Spanish: John Byrne Skerrett para niños