The Commanding Officer was Lord George Paget. All Pagets' orders were relayed to his troops through Trumpeter Hugh Crawford. During the charge the 4th QLD reached the Russian guns and a savage hand to hand fighting took place among the troopers and the Russian gunners.
As the order came through to retire back up through the valley Hugh Crawfords horse collapsed from exhaustion and he fell to the ground losing his sword in the process. As he lay on the ground two Cossacks attcked him. Private Samuel Parkes came to Hughs rescue by standing in front of him and driving off the Cossacks.
They both set off on foot and were soon joined by Private John Edden, also from the 4th QLD. They came across Major John Halkett was was severely wounded. At this point more Cossacks appeared and attacked the four men. Parkes tried to hold them off while the other two carried Halkett to safety. A Russian officer called on them to surrender but they refused. Parkes was shot in the hand and Halkett was killed. Edden managed to escape but Hugh and Parkes were captured.
Both men were given food and water and then led into captivity. For his actions Private Samuel Parkes was awarded the Victoria Cross.
Hugh Crawford was released by the Russian in December 1855 and returned to his regiment. He was later promoted to Trumpet Major.
