Royal Naval Biography/Pilch, Robert
ROBERT PILCH, Esq.
[Commander.]
Obtained his first commission in Dec. 1796; and commanded the launches of the Bellerophon and Elephant 74’s, at the capture of la Decouverte French national schooner, mounting six long 6-pounders and six swivels, with a complement of 52 men, lying in the Caracol Passage, near Cape François, St. Domingo, Nov. 23d, 1803. This service was performed without any loss on the part of the British, though for a short time under a very smart fire from the enemy’s great guns and small arms. The French had two men wounded, but none slain.
We next find Lieutenant Pilch mentioned in an official letter, of which the following is a copy:
“Bellerophon, off Dagerost, Baltic, June 20th, 1809.
“Sir,– Pursuant to your signal to me of yesterday, I proceeded in H.M. ship under my command off Bango, and at sunset discovered a lugger, apparently armed, and two other vessels at anchor within the islands. Deeming it of importance to get hold of them, I anchored, and detached the boats under the orders of Lieutenant Pilch; and have to acquaint you, that they gained complete possession of the vessels, which being found were of no consequence, and under cover of four strong batteries (not before observed), supported by several gun-boats, were abandoned. It was then judged necessary, to prevent loss in returning, to dash at the nearest battery, mounting four 24-pounders, and, by a muster-roll found, garrisoned with 103 men, which, after an obstinate resistance, was carried in the most gallant manner, the Russians retreating to boats on the other side of the island. The guns were spiked, and magazine destroyed.
“Lieutenant Pilch reports to me the very able assistance he received from Lieutenants Sheridan and Bentham, Lieutenant Carrington, royal marines, and Mr. Mart, carpenter, volunteers; and that more cool bravery could not have been displayed than by the officers and men employed on this service. Considering the resistance met with, and the heavy fire of grape-shot from batteries and gun-boats in the retreat, the loss is comparatively small, being only five wounded. I am, &c.
(Signed)“Samuel Warren, Captain.”
“To John Barrett, Esq. Captain H.M.S. Minotaur.”
Lieutenant Pilch was made a commander on the 4th Dec. 1813.