A ship of the Somerset's size would have had a detachment of 77 Marines. One Captain, 1 2nd Lieutentent, 2 Serjeants, 2 Corporals, 1 Drummer, and 70 Private Men.
On 4 December 1774, the HMS Asia, Somerset, and Boynes, carrying 460 British Marines under the command of the gallant Major John Pitcairn, arrived upon the shores of the tumultuous city of Boston. A month later, sensing New England's bellicosity, the Admiralty readied additional forces for service in the colonies. In May of 1775, this augmentation, consisting of 2 majors, 10 captains, 27 subalterns, 28 sergeants, 25 corporals, 29 drummers, and 600 privates, joined with the 460 marines already in Boston to form the 1st and 2nd Battalion of Marines.
While we currently do not have our own company of marines, the Somerset is proud to hold a strong fellowship with the members of His Majesty's Marines - Boston Camp and we attend most events together.
If you have any interest in becoming a Marine, you couldn't find a better organization. For more information, or to get involved
CONTACT US or visit His Majesty's Marines - Boston Camp website:
Here
Stay tuned as we will be updating this area with more specific information about the life of a Somerset Marine.