History : Hall Of Fame : Major-General Robert Ross of Blandensburg
Robert Ross joined the 20th as a major in 1799, and was in command for 20 years during a particularly proud period of the Regiment's history. Under him the 20th became greatly distinguished for it's bravery, dash and powers of endurance at the battle of Maida, the retreat to Corunna, and in the heavy fighting of the Peninsula war.
Promoted Major-General and given command of the Brigade of which the 20th formed part, Ross was severely wounded at the Battle of Orthes eight months later in February, 1814. In the same year he achieved fame as Commander-in-Chief of the expeditionary force against the United States, where, in a short but brilliant campaign, he decisively defeated the Americans at Blandensburg, and entered Washington, destroying the public buildings by order of the British Government. He was killed shortly afterwards in a skirmish near Baltimore, and his family received from the Prince Regent the distinction of thereafter being designated Ross of Blandensburg.
Among the many fine soldiers of his time, Ross stood out for his dauntless courage; his marked ability in command; his solicitude for his men; his high character and endearing personal qualities.
