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Posted: Wed Feb 25, 2009 1:19 pm |
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I've only read of a couple of incidents at Isandlwana, firstly, an officer used his sword against a Zulu, which got lodged in the shield, making him literally defenceless. Also, Mansfield of the R.E., was seen wielding a sword, but I don't know if these were confirmed in any sources.
Also, there was the incident of the man armed with a cutlass, with his back to a wagon wheel.
Although the sword is mentioned in use by mounted men, such as lancers, are there any more occasions known of, where infantry officers used their swords in close-quarter fighting ?
I do have a book listed about edged weapon combat -
Cold Steel : The Art Of Fencing With The Sabre.
by Alfred Hutton.
It appears to be set out the same way of his fixed bayonet book, which would be extremely helpful.
Anyone know of it ?
Thanks
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GlennWade
Joined: 16 Jan 2006 |
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Posted: Wed Feb 25, 2009 11:39 pm |
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Hi Coll,
This Gingindlovu anecdote from 'Fearful Hard Times' by Ians Knight and Castle. Not an officer's sword but still a sword-related tale that makes me smile. Page 209.
'One gallant trooper, anxious to distinguish himself, rode valiantly after one of the flying Zulus who tried to cut him down. After hacking ineffectually at him for some time the Zulu thought it was his turn, and going for his persuer with his assegai slashed his fingers off, and picking up his sword, which he naturally dropped, made off in triumph'.
The report came from Lt. Knight of The Buffs who heard the story told at Eshowe the next day
Saw,
The story you mention is that of Sgt. Anderson of the '6th Carabineers' at the same battle.
Cheers,
Glenn
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_________________ Tell it in England those that pass us by, Here, faithful to their charge, her soldiers lie.
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GlennWade
Joined: 16 Jan 2006 |
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Posted: Thu Feb 26, 2009 12:00 pm |
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Hi Saw,
Yes it was and here it is! I was dozing off last night and had no energy to type both stories.
'There was one warrior who would not fly, but set his back to a thorn bush and defied his foes. 'Leave him to me', said a Sergeant of the Greys who was instructor in the Mounted Infantry. A ring was formed and at it they went, sword mounted against assegai and shield dismounted. The soldier was the more skilful, but the Zulu was in better condition. Cutting was tried at first, but it was turned by the shield invariably; at last the point went through the shield and man, and the hero found the death he courted'.
The quote is from Captain William Molyneux.
Cheers,
Glenn
'Fearful Hard Times', Page 208. Ians Knight and Castle.
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