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Pierre Cesar DeryFrench general, participant in Napoleon's invasion of Russia in 1812
Date of Birth: 02.02.1768
Country:  France |
Content:
- Early Life and Military Career
- Transition to the Army and Revolutionary Wars
- Napoleonic Wars
- Later Career and Death in Russia
- Legacy
Early Life and Military Career
Pierre Deriwas born on February 2, 1768, in Saint-Pierre, Martinique. He joined the French navy as a young sailor in 1780 and was promoted to midshipman in 1781. In 1782, he fought in the American War of Independence, where he was captured and later exchanged by the British.
Transition to the Army and Revolutionary Wars
In 1786, Deri left the navy and enlisted in the cavalry. He fought in the First Coalition War of the French Revolution, earning promotion to lieutenant for his bravery at the Battle of Fleurus. At the Battle of Katzbach, he captured two enemy cannons.
Napoleonic Wars
In 1800, Deri joined the Italian campaign and distinguished himself at the Battle of Tortona. At the Battle of Marengo, he was wounded and captured but later released and promoted to captain.
In 1805, Deri became an aide-de-camp to Marshal Murat. He served in the campaigns in Austria and East Prussia, earning the rank of brigadier general in 1806 and becoming commander of the 5th Hussar Regiment. He led his regiment with distinction at the Battle of Heilsberg, where he was once again wounded.
Later Career and Death in Russia
In 1809, Deri transferred to the army of the Kingdom of Naples. In 1810, he received the title of Baron of the French Empire. In 1811, he returned to the French army.
In 1812, Deri commanded a brigade of light cavalry in the Grande Armee's invasion of Russia. He participated in all the major battles of the campaign, including the Battle of Borodino, where he was wounded. On October 18, he was killed in an advance battle near the Tarutino camp. His body was never recovered.
Legacy
Deri's name is inscribed on the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. He is remembered as a brave and skilled cavalry officer who fought in some of the most important battles of the Napoleonic Wars.
