Middle Guard (Napoleonic)

The Middle Guard, established between 1806, and 1808, composed mainly of veteran soldiers with at least three military campaigns of experience. The Middle Guard served as a seasoned reserve force, bridging the gap between the elite Old Guard, and the Young Guard. The Middle Guard were often deployed in middle of combat situtation or deliver decisive blows in battle. These units composed of veteran soldiers that probably were necessary for maintaining the flexibility,and effectiveness of Napoleon's army in campaigns, including the later stages of the Napoleonic Wars. The Middle Guard, although less reputable than the Old Guard, enjoyed significant privileges such as better pay, rations, and living conditions. Their roles as a battlefield reserve and a symbol of Napoleon's power reflected their strategic and political importance during the Napoleonic Wars. that goes onto action during key moments of the war, particularly in France's battles against British, and Portuguese forces. However, as the war dragged on, the Middle Guard faced increasingly difficult circumstances. Despite their past experience, and reputation, they were often deployed in the later stages of battles, when the French army was already stretched to its limits, and also faced retreat. At battles like Vimeiro (1808), Talavera (1809), and Busaco (1810), their role was overshadowed by the eventual dominance of the British forces under Arthur Wellesley command, who would later be known as the 1st Duke of Wellington. == Formation ==

Between 1806 and 1808, the Imperial Guard significantly expanded, eventually forming two regiments each of grenadiers, and chasseurs. The service requirements for soldiers in the second regiments were reduced to eight years, allowing for a wider pool of experienced recruits. Artilleries also experienced grewth, and development during this period. In 1806, a regiment of horse artillery (consisting of six companies), and a battalion of trained troops were added. By 1808, the artillery arm had been further expanded, although the horse Artillery of the Imperial Guard was reduced to 32 guns. At the same time, the three companies of foot artillery, and three companies of conscript cannon were established, then eventually evolving into the Young Guard artillery companies. Fusiliers Grenadiers/2e Régiment de Fusiliers de la Garde Impériale The Fusiliers-Grenadiers were the second regiment of Fusiliers, established In 1807 the 2nd Fusiliers had been formed from conscripts, and soon it was renamed to Fusiliers-Grenadiers by combining the 1st battalions of the Grenadier, and Chasseur Vélites. Initially, the regiment was meant to have a strength of 1,800 men. After conscripts and soldiers from the Compagnies de Reserve joined, it grew to four battalions, each consisting of four companies with 120 men per company. == See also ==