Ruffin's division was in reserve at the Battle of Medellín on 29 March 1809. Late on 27 July at the Battle of Talavera, Victor ordered Ruffin's division to make a night attack on the British position. Only the 9th Light succeeded in reaching the crest of the hill, only to be driven off. The 24th and 96th Line got lost in the dark. Early in the morning of 28 July, Ruffin's division attacked again and was badly mauled, losing 1,300 men. In the afternoon, Ruffin's division advanced on the extreme right flank and was attacked by cavalry. The 1st Light Dragoons of the King's German Legion became disordered after riding into a hidden gully, then attacked the 24th Line which was formed in square. The Germans were easily driven off. Barrois was appointed Baron of the Empire on 24 February 1809.