Pierre Francois Joseph Durutte

Pierre Francois Joseph Durutte

Date of Birth: .
Country: France

Content:
  1. Jean-Baptiste Duruette: French General and Hero
  2. Rise to Prominence
  3. Napoleonic Wars
  4. Peninsular Campaign
  5. Battle of Kalisz
  6. Later Career
  7. Defense of Metz
  8. Later Life and Legacy

Jean-Baptiste Duruette: French General and Hero

Early Life and Military Career

Jean-Baptiste Duruette was born on July 13, 1767, in Douai, France. Inspired by the spirit of the French Revolution, he joined the army as a volunteer at its outbreak. He fought in numerous battles, including Menin, Courtrai, Jemappes, Hondschoote, and Castricum.

Rise to Prominence

Duruette rose through the ranks, serving as chief of staff to General Michot and General Moreau. He commanded the vanguard of General Daendels' division and distinguished himself in the battles of Bergen, Beverwijk, Biberach, and Hohenlinden. In 1803, he was promoted to the rank of General of Division.

Napoleonic Wars

After the Treaty of Lunéville, Duruette commanded local troops in various departments of France. He participated in the campaign of 1809 against Austria, where he led the crossing of the Piave and Tagliamento rivers. At the Battle of Malborghetto, he stormed the fort and entered first, resulting in the surrender of the entire garrison.

Peninsular Campaign

Duruette also fought in the Peninsular Campaign. He commanded the 32nd Division and participated in the invasion of Russia in 1812. He distinguished himself in battles at Volkovisk, Beresina, and Buga before leading the retreat of the battered French army from Russia.

Battle of Kalisz

In February 1813, Duruette defended his division against a surprise attack by Russian forces near Kalisz. He held off the enemy and gave time for the scattered French regiments to regroup and retreat.

Later Career

Duruette continued to fight in the Battle of Bautzen, Großbeeren, and Dennewitz. He played a crucial role in the Battle of Lützen, where his unexpected counterattack contributed to the French victory. He received the title of Count for his service in this campaign.

Defense of Metz

During the invasion of France by Allied forces, Duruette defended the city of Metz. He refused surrender offers and held out until the Allied forces had withdrawn. He received a saber wound to the head and lost his right hand at the Battle of Waterloo.

Later Life and Legacy

After the fall of Napoleon, Duruette retired to his estate in Flanders. He died on April 18, 1837, in Ypres. Duruette's name is inscribed on the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, honoring his heroic service to France.

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