George Joins the Military
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George Washington at age 21
After Lawrence died in Barbados from tuberculosis, George decided to join the military. At the age of 21, this strapping 6'2" redhead became a Major in the British colonial army, following in Lawrence's footsteps and bringing respect to the family name.
A Voluntarily Dangerous Assignment
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Washington and Gist on Alleghany River
Pressured by Virginia businessmen who wanted to protect their interests, Governor Dinwiddie needed a soldier to deliver a strong message to the French, who were building forts and trading posts too close to the Virginia border. Washington immediately volunteered for this dangerous assignment. He delivered the warning, and set out to quickly return to Williamsburg. The trip back proved hazardous. George was shot at, almost drowned in the icy Allegheny River and had to walk several miles when his horse was too weak. He was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel upon his return.
An Unfortunate Skirmish
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The French and Indian War
1754-1763
Deciding that the French needed to be forced out, Governor Dinwiddie ordered Washington to recruit troops and move out to Ohio at once. Although Washington's men were inexperienced and lacked adequate supplies for the mission, they managed to surprise the French, killing 10 (including a minister)and capturing 22. This small skirmish further ignited hostilities between England and France; it also marked the beginning of the French and Indian War; a war that lasted 7 years and cost thousands of lives.
An Unheeded Warning
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Click image to watch video of the Battle
Against all odds, Washington managed to survive the Battle of Monongahela even though he was repeatedly shot at by the enemy. A perfect target on horseback, Washington was not hit by the bullets. He warned General Braddock about Indian tactics before they set out, but Braddock underestimated them - a costly mistake. Hundreds of British soldiers died that day, including General Braddock, and many more were wounded.