Joseph Dyas

Who was Joseph Dyas?

Joseph Dyas was an Ensign in the British 51st Light Infantry, serving in the Napoleonic Wars.

He is famous for his actions at the storming of the San Christobal fort, Badajoz; one of the bloodiest actions of the Peninsular War. He twice volunteered to be part of the Forlorn Hope, on the second occasion he led the party after its commander, Major McGreachy, and all the other officers were killed.

Dyas was immediately offered a promotion in another regiment by Wellington, but declined and stayed with the 51st. He subsequently served at Waterloo.

He reached the rank of Captain, later serving in the 2nd Ceylon Regiment, before taking 'half-pay'. He retired to Ballymena, County Antrim and served as the local Stipendiary Magistrate. He died there on 3 May 1850, and is buried in St. Patrick's Church.

His son Joseph Henry Dyas served in the Royal Engineers, rising to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

Dyas is still celebrated by The Light Infantry for his actions at Badajoz, with a toast to "Ensign Dyas and the Stormers!".