Awarded to the Military General Service Medal 1799-1814. The first attempt by the British to capture the fortress of St Sebastian failed. The siege was resumed on 26th August by Sir Thomas Graham. On 31st a second successful assault took place. Much fierce fighting took place and casualties were great, however a lucky chance helped - a shell fell among some powder barrels and grenades which when they exploded also set of a mine meant to destroy the attackers. Some 300 enemy grenadiers were blown up and the enemy retreated into the castle. The castle was bombarded for two hours on 8th September and finally the Governor General surrendered with 1800 men. The Allies lost 951 officers and men killed and 2490 wounded.
