The Vegas Voice 9-20

October 25, 1854
By: John Beilun / Time Traveler
In 1853, the Russian Empire decided to
carve a piece out of the Ottoman realm and
arbitrarily appropriated a portion of its holdings.
Allied with the Turks, the British and French threatened the Russians
with war if they did not withdraw, which they shortly did thereafter.
Now, this should have been the end of the matter. However, Britain
and France suddenly felt like flexing their muscles. So, in September
1854, they invaded a Russian held peninsula that jutted into the Black
Sea – a neck of land called the Crimea.
The fighting stopped after nearly two years, when both sides grew
tired, with no one gaining advantage. Known as the Crimean War, this
unnecessary and meaningless conflict is infamous for the countless
military errors committed by both sides.
The Battle of Balaclava is probably the most egregious example.
On October 25, 1854, Major General the Earl of Cardigan viewed the
valley to his front. The hills on each side and the opposite end were
defended by over fifty heavy artillery pieces and twenty battalions of
infantry. Nevertheless, Cardigan’s brother-in-law and immediate
superior, Lieutenant General the Earl of Lucan, had commanded him
to attack.
Due to the unfavorable terrain and the enemy’s overwhelming
firepower the order was essentially suicidal. And in this instance, it was
made even more so because Cardigan’s force was comprised solely of
light cavalry, armed only with lance and saber. Cardigan and Lucan
however detested each other,
and many historians believe
that their animosity tainted
the Lieutenant General’s
judgment.
Despite his misgivings,
Cardigan led his brigade’s
charge into the valley.
Meanwhile, the incredulous
Russians primed their artillery.
Cardigan’s men fell in
droves. Lucan’s promised
support never materialized.
Yet, the British continued on.
Miraculously, remnants of
Cardigan’s brigade reached the
opposite end of the valley and
overran the guns positioned
there.
However, their elation was cut short when the Russians unleashed
their infantry battalions. Outgunned and outnumbered, the British
retreated back the way they came. Replacing shells with canister, the
enemy resumed their cannonade.
Theirs not to reason why. Theirs but to do or die. Into the Valley of
Death rode the six hundred.
Thus, ended the Charge of the Light Brigade.
NLV Dept 3
An 11-year officer in
the United States
Air Force Reserves,
Judge Advocate
General (JAG) Corps
“...earning high marks for fairness and efficiency.
Judge Lee’s experience and temperament carry the day.
We urge a vote for
Judge Chris Lee.”
9/15/20
64
October 2020