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Alexander WoodfordBritish military leader, field marshal
Date of Birth: 15.06.1782
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Sir Alexander Woodford (1782-1870)
Early Life and Military TrainingSir Alexander Woodford was a distinguished British military leader who served as a Field Marshal. He was born in London in 1782 to John Woodford and Lady Susan, daughter of the 3rd Duke of Gordon. Woodford attended Winchester College and the Royal Military Academy at Woolwich.
Military Career
Woodford's military career began in 1794 when he was commissioned as an ensign in the 9th (East Norfolk) Regiment of Foot. He rose through the ranks rapidly, becoming a lieutenant in 1795, a captain in 1799, and a lieutenant colonel in 1810.
During the Napoleonic Wars, Woodford served with distinction in the Coldstream Guards. He participated in numerous battles, including the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. For his bravery and leadership, he was promoted to colonel in 1814 and became the regiment's lieutenant colonel in 1821.
Senior Positions
In 1825, Woodford was elevated to the rank of major general. He continued to rise through the ranks, becoming a lieutenant general in 1838 and a full general in 1854. Woodford served as commander-in-chief of the British forces in Gibraltar from 1843 to 1846 and in Ireland from 1855 to 1856.
Field Marshal
On January 1, 1868, Woodford was promoted to the prestigious rank of Field Marshal. He retired from active service in 1870. Woodford died in London on May 4, 1870, at the age of 88.