The (Half) Irish American Revolution
In celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, American Legion Post 2001 reviews a rich history of military contribution:
How did Irish immigrants contribute to the American Revolution?
Our Armed forces and Irish immigrants (and their descendants) have been a recognizable part of America’s history. According to the British parliament, during the American Revolution, the consensus was that the Continental Army was half comprised of Irishmen. George Washington was a member of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick; an important alliance since Irish-born soldiers were intertwined with his command and subsequent legacy.
Excerpt from one of the writings of George Washington’s adopted son, George Washington Park Custis:
“When our friendless standard was first unfurled for resistance, who were strangers [foreigners] that first mustered ‘round its staff when it reeled in the fight, who more bravely sustained it than Erin’s generous sons? Who led the assault on Quebec [General Montgomery] and shed early luster on our arms, in the dawn of our revolution? Who led the right wing of Liberty’s forlorn hope [General Sullivan] at the passage of the Delaware [just before the attack on Trenton]? Who felt the privations of the camp, the fate of battle, or the horrors of the prison ship more keenly than the Irish? Washington loved them, for they were the companions of his toil, his perils, his glories, in the deliverance of his country.”
A lesser-known fact was that the Irish held a key role in the untried U.S. Navy. Congress designated John Barry, an Irish immigrant, as the “Father of the United States Navy.” Irish-Americans have served with distinction for the entire history of the United States with 2,021 Medal of Honor recipients – more than half of MOHs awarded since 2009.
Today, an Army unit named the New York Fighting 69 boasts a fully integrated and diverse precinct. The 69th Regiment, part of the New York National Guard, leads New York City’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade, displaying Irish Wolfhound mascots up and down fifth avenue. The precinct’s vibrant Irish heritage can be seen (literally) marching the streets of Manhattan.
Sources:
Irish won the American Revolution, remembered on Patriot’s Day | IrishCentral.com
How the Irish Immigrants Came to New England – New England Historical Society
