American war

The regiment was stationed at New York on the outbreak of the American War of Independence (1775-83). However, it suffered so badly from disease that its soldiers had to be dispersed to other units in America and its officers sent home to recruit.

Its new recruits were mustered at Salisbury in November 1776. Two years later, they began serving as marines, seeing action at the Battle of Ushant.

In 1782, the Army's line infantry regiments were given county names to assist with recruiting. The 50th was given West Kent. A year later, it returned to its infantry role, garrisoning Ireland and then Gibraltar.