Charles Lewis served with his regiment in Canada during the rebellion (1838-1839). His campaign service also included the Crimean War and he is recorded as having commanded his regiment and divisions in actions against the Russians. He was at the Siege of Sevastopol (1854–55). He was awarded the Crimea Medal along with two Turkish Decorations (the Order of the Medjidie 5th Class and the Turkish Crimea Medal) for his war service.