Colour-Sergeant John Daly was born in Kilkenny and enlisted into the 84th Foot at Cork in March 1811, aged 21 years. Subsequently engaged in the Peninsula from July 1813 until August 1814, he was present at the Battle of Nive. Daly gained advancement to Corporal in July 1815, Sergeant in April 1817 and Colour-Sergeant in July 1825, finally being discharged at his own request in May 1832.