In February 1811, he was promoted Corporal; and in February 1812, Sergeant; signs of exemplary service. In June 1812, war broke out between the United Kingdom and the United States of America. In February and March 1813, he was with his regiment on their epic winter march from Fredericton, New Brunswick through Quebec (Lower Canada) and Kingston (Upper Canada) to the Niagara corridor. On November 25, 1813 he was appointed Regimental Colour Sergeant; an honor reserved for the bravest of soldiers, his duty being to protect the junior officer (the Ensign) who carried the regimental colours during battle.