First Casualty

"I instantly saw my folly, and ceased firing, and they did the same - the 4-Paunders alone continuing the cannonade as before. But this was not all. The first man of my troop touched was by one of these confounded long shot. I shall never forget the scream the poor lad gave when struck. It was one of the last they fired, and shattered his left arm to pieces as he stood between the wagons. That scream went to my very soul, for I accused myself as having caused his misfortune. I was, however, obliged to conceal my emotion from the men, who had turned to look at him; so, bidding them "stand to their front," I continued my walk up and down, whilst Hitchins ran to his assistance. "

This is a breastplate worn by the heavy horse cavalry in the French Army.  As you can see from the prominent hole, it was no real protection from the 4-pounder shells like was shot by the horse artillery.  Just imagine the effect of a 6 or 12 pounder shell!  The owner of this breastplate was Francois-Antoine Fauveau (1792-1815).  You'll note his dates - he did die at Waterloo.

Humanities Resource of Mark Hunter