SURTEES OF THE 95TH RIFLES - FROM REDCOAT TO RIFLE GREEN In more ways than any other writer from the ranks of the 95th, William Surtees' story most closely resembles that of fiction's most famous Rifleman. Surtees actually came from a humble background and served in the ranks. He was not born a gentleman but had to approximate one at a time of huge class distinctions. Surtees rose to the rank of Quartermaster. Through his tone we feel the difficulties of living with those of higher station, but through his words we also experience life on campaign from the viewpoint of a soldier who couldn't resist picking up a rifle for a 'pot' at the French. An essential perspective on life in the Rifles during the Napoleonic Wars.