The Fishguard and Newport Volunteer Infantry had about 300 men, making it the county's largest local unit. Its 28-year-old commander had purchased his commission, had no combat experience, and had not ensured that Fishguard Fort possessed the locally supplied shot it required. Purchased rank did not automatically make an officer incapable, but Knox had neglected basic organization and supply. When a messenger reached him at a social event on the night of 22 February, he continued dancing until others impressed the seriousness of the invasion on him. Administrative weakness in peacetime carried directly into a delayed operational response.
Chapter · 29:05-34:32
Thomas Knox's militia readiness failures
The largest local militia unit is undermined by an inexperienced commander, missing cannon shot, and a delayed response when news of the landing arrives.