The Principles of War Podcast

The Orders for the Charge of the Light Brigade

James Eling
The Orders for the Charge of the Light Brigade
The orders for the Charge of the Light Brigade. Written by General Airey and approved by Raglan were ambiguous and easily misconstrued in the heat of battle.

Lord Raglan wishes the cavalry to advance rapidly to the front, follow the enemy & try to prevent the enemy carrying away the guns. Troop Horse Artillery may accompany. French Cavalry is on your left. Immediate. R. Airey.

The orders contain all of the critical information, Who, What, When, Where and Why. The key issue is with the ‘where’.