British Marines
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Contents
Origin and History
In 1739, England raised six Marine regiments. Four additional regiments were raised in 1741.
In 1748, all these Marine regiments, including their officers were placed on half-pay.
Early in 1755, on the eve of war, the Parliament voted an establishment of 5,000 marines in 50 companies in 3 Grand Divisions> These divisions were based in Portsmouth, Plymouth and Chatham. This was the first time that marine troops were established on a regular basis.
N.B.: the title "Royal" was not awarded to Marine regiments before 1802.
Service during the War
Throughout the Seven Years' War the number of Marine troops constantly increased. By 1757, they consisted of 11,419 marines in 70 companies. In 1758, there were 14,585 marines in 100 companies. Finally, in 1762, the number of marine troops reached 19,061 men in 135 companies.
In 1763, after the peace, the total effective force of Marine regiments was dramatically reduced to 4,287 marines.
Uniform
Privates
Very few information available for the moment.
Headgear |
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Neckstock | n/a | ||||||||||||
Coat | brick red laced with red and blue stripes
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Waistcoat | white | ||||||||||||
Breeches | white | ||||||||||||
Gaiters | n/a | ||||||||||||
Leather Equipment |
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Officers
not yet available
Musicians
not yet available
Colours
not yet available
References
Moulton, J.L., The Royal Marines, Royal Marines Museum, revised edition, 1981
Acknowledgments
Juan