The Forlorn Hope

From Wikipedia.

Yesterday, I mentioned William Whitley as leading the "Forlorn Hope" charge at the Battle of the Thames. I knew that if you are a soldier, you'd be best not to be involved in anything such as a "forlorn hope" if you care to live, but did a little more research on it.

A "Forlorn Hope" is a band of soldiers chosen or volunteering to take the leading part in a military operation, such as an assault on a defended position where risk of casualties is high.

It comes from the Dutch words "Verloren Hoop," maening literally "lost troop." In the days of muzzle-loading muskets, it referred to the first wave of troops who would be cut down by gunfire, enabling those coming after it to fall upon the enemy with few casualties.

No Sir, No Forlorn Hope for Me, Sir. --Brock-Perry