Robert Henry Dick facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sir Robert Dick
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Sir Robert Dick by William Salter
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| Born | 29 July 1787 |
| Died | 10 February 1846 (aged 58) |
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
British Army |
| Rank | Major-General |
| Commands held | Third Infantry Division |
| Battles/wars | Sikh War |
| Awards | Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath Knight Commander of the Royal Guelphic Order |
Sir Robert Henry Dick (born 29 July 1787 – died 10 February 1846) was a brave Scottish soldier. He became a Major-General in the British Army. His father was a doctor who worked for the British East India Company. Sir Robert was known for his courage and leadership in many important battles.
Contents
Military Career
Robert Dick joined the British Army in 1800. He started in the 75th Regiment. By 1804, he was a lieutenant in the 42nd Regiment of Foot. He fought bravely as an officer in the Peninsular War. This was a big war in Europe.
Key Battles
Robert Dick took part in several major battles during the Peninsular War. These included the Battle of Buçaco, the Battle of Fuentes de Oñoro, and the Battle of Salamanca. He showed great skill and courage in these fights.
Later, he also distinguished himself in two very famous battles. These were the Battle of Quatre Bras and the Battle of Waterloo. His actions in these battles were highly praised.
Promotions and Awards
For his bravery and service, Robert Dick received several important awards. In 1814, he was given the C.B. (Companion of the Order of the Bath). He later became a Knight Commander, receiving the K.C.H. in 1832 and the K.C.B. in 1838. These awards showed his high standing and achievements.
In 1837, he was promoted to the rank of Major-General. From 1841 to 1842, he was the acting Commander-in-Chief in Madras, India. This was a very important leadership role.
Final Battle
In 1846, Major-General Dick took command of the Third Infantry Division. This was during the Sikh War in India. On February 10, 1846, he led his soldiers in a second charge. They were attacking Sikh defenses at the Battle of Sobraon. Sadly, he fell during this charge, at 58 years old. He died while leading his troops to victory.
Memorials
Sir Robert Henry Dick is buried in Ferozepore, India. His grave has a special message. It talks about his bravery and how he fought for his country. It mentions his service in Egypt, at Maida, throughout the Peninsula, at Waterloo, and in India.
Memorials in Scotland and India
There are also memorials to Sir Robert Henry Dick in other places. One is at Dunkeld Cathedral in Scotland. This memorial was placed there by officers and friends who served with him. It remembers his distinguished service and how he fell at Sobraon.
Another memorial is at St. George's Cathedral, Madras, India. This monument was put up by the public of Madras. It honors his long and brilliant military career. It also lists many of the battles his regiment, the 42nd Royal Highlanders, fought in.
A memorial also exists in St Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Portrait
A portrait of Sir Robert Henry Dick was painted by William Salter. This painting can be seen at the National Portrait Gallery in London.
