Monday, June 28, 2021

Celebrating Independence Day

In another few days we will be celebrating July 4.  For many of us it's a time for family, outdoor events & relaxation.  For millions in our armed services it will be a normal day, serving to protect the rest of us.  As we celebrate let's not forget to pray for their health, their families and their safety. 

Today we have many "heroes" that seem to be created by media and pop culture.  This week I intend to write about some of the lesser known heroes in our history beginning with Hugh Mercer.  

Mercer was a physician in Scotland prior to coming to America as a fugitive in 1746 during a struggle for power between opposing British factions.  By 1756 he was serving heroically alongside fellow colonel George Washington during the 7 Years' War.  During the early days of the Revolution he rose to brigadier general in the Continental Army leading a number of successful campaigns.  In early 1777 he lead a force of 350 soldiers against a much larger British force.  The struggle devolved to hand to hand combat and with little remaining weaponry Mercer lead a charge to rally his troops.  He died of his wounds but American Forces succeeded in driving the British from Princeton, NJ.  

To learn about Mercer and other American Heroes please see https://www.battlefields.org/learn/biographies/hugh-mercer






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