Did you know a number of (predominately Irish) soldiers deserted from the US Army and served in the Mexican Army in the Mexican-American War?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Patrick%27s_Battalion
They fought especially well and bravely, outperforming their Mexican brethren in several battles. Ultimately, they were almost all hung or shot for desertion.
At the Battle of Churubusco:
"Though hopelessly outnumbered and underequipped, the defenders repelled the attacking U.S. forces with heavy losses until their ammunition ran out and a Mexican officer raised the white flag of surrender. Officer Patrick Dalton of the San Patricios tore the white flag down, prompting Gen. Pedro Anaya to order his men to fight on, with their bare hands if necessary.[31] American Private Ballentine reported that when the Mexicans attempted to raise the white flag two more times, members of the San Patricios shot and killed them.[42][43] After brutalclose-quarters fighting with bayonets and sabers through the halls and rooms inside the convent, U.S. Army Captain James M. Smith suggested a surrender after raising his white handkerchief."
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