He was appointed Colonel of the 36th Foot in 1751.

He became Colonel of the 81st Foot in 1798, but exchanged it for the 22nd Foot less than six months later.

He became Colonel of the 9th Foot in 1804.

General Manners continued as Colonel of the 30th Foot until his death.

He was Colonel of the 77th Foot between 1808 and 1811.

He was subsequently Colonel of the 89th Foot and then the 10th Foot.

He was promoted to Colonel of the 86th Foot and to General in 1812.

Erskine was made Colonel of the 80th Foot on 4 March 1777.

In 1772 he was promoted to colonel, and from 1775 until his death was Colonel of the 46th Foot.

He was Colonel of the 25th Foot (1746-1747).