During the campaign in Syria two emissaries were sent to demand the surrender of Saint Jean d'Acre of Djezzar Pasha.

Neither of the two returned; they had been beheaded.

It was necessary to send a third.

Roland applied for the duty, and so insistent was he, that he eventually obtained the general's permission and returned in safety.

He took part in each of the nineteen assaults made upon the fortress; at each assault he was seen entering the breach.