It played a role in Napoleon's military campaigns, offering a balance of experience and infantry flexibility.

The service requirements for soldiers in the second regiments were reduced to eight years, allowing for a broader pool of experienced recruits.

Despite their past experience and reputation, they were often deployed in the later stages of battles, when the French army was already stretched to its limits, and also faced retreat.

At battles like Vimeiro (1808), Talavera (1809), and Busaco (1810), their role was overshadowed by the eventual dominance of British forces under Arthur Wellesley, who would later be known as the Duke of Wellington.

[2] In 1812, Napoleon's Imperial Guard reached its peak strength, with approximately 56,000 men, including infantry, cavalry, and artillery units.

This period marked the height of the Guard's power and influence, as it was heavily relied upon during the French invasion of Russia.

Despite the veterans' experience, the Guard's survival was hampered by overwhelming circumstances, marking a significant decline in its ranks.

Despite the eventual disbandment of the Middle Guard in 1814, the unit still played a role in key battles like the Borodino and the Leipzig.

The Middle Guard’s reputation, veteran force and participation in campaigns earned a place in French military history, even though it was effectively dissolved after Napoleon’s first exile.

During the Battle of Waterloo in 1815, the Middle Guard’s final combat begun when Napoleon ordered them to be deployed in an assault against the Allied forces, commanded by Wellington.