Leading In Extraordinary Times
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Washington visiting his troops at Valley Forge
Throughout the American Revolution, George Washington's soldiers endured the most horrific conditions one could imagine. These hardships plagued them, perhaps even more than the British soldiers they were fighting.
Valley Forge was a place where the soldiers hunkered down for winter encampment in 1777. Though no battle was fought there, they struggled to survive against disease, starvation, freezing cold, lice, lack of clothing and extremely low morale. But Valley Forge was also a place of rebirth. With the help of Baron von Steuben, Washington launched a systematic, vigorous training regime that transformed his soldiers into a new, energized and professional American Army.
Valley Forge was a place where the soldiers hunkered down for winter encampment in 1777. Though no battle was fought there, they struggled to survive against disease, starvation, freezing cold, lice, lack of clothing and extremely low morale. But Valley Forge was also a place of rebirth. With the help of Baron von Steuben, Washington launched a systematic, vigorous training regime that transformed his soldiers into a new, energized and professional American Army.
"The unfortunate soldiers were in want of everything; they had neither coats nor hats, nor shirts, nor shoes. Their feet and their legs froze until they were black, and it was often necessary to amputate them."
---- Marquis de Lafayette
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Mutual Devotion
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Washington in prayer at Valley Forge
George Washington was deeply disturbed by the lack of provisions at Valley Forge. Concerned there might be a mutiny, he tried every means possible (begging, flattery, guilt, threats) in his letters to Congress to obtain supplies. Washington never left Valley Forge, choosing to stay with his men always. His dedication earned the respect, confidence and love of his men. They were devoted to him, and he to them.
"Naked and starving as they are we cannot enough admire the incomparable patience and fidelity of the soldiery."
–General George Washington at Valley Forge, February 16, 1778.