By: D. Keith Dunnagan, Esq.
November 11, 2024
Two hundred and forty-nine years ago, in 1775, thirteen fledgling British colonies on the east coast of North American called on their citizens to help defend their rights. In April 1775, Paul Revere set out on his midnight ride from Boston to Lexington Massachusetts to alarm the countryside that British soldiers were marching from Boston towards Concord to destroy provisions, powered and ammunition that was stored for the Massachusetts militia.
At dawn the next morning, approximately 70 Massachusetts militiamen lined up on Lexington Green, blocking the 700 British soldiers advancing towards Concord. Captain Parker of the Massachusetts militia gave the command: “Stand your ground; don’t fire unless fired upon; but if they mean to have a war, let it begin here!”
Someone fired. History does not tell us who fired the first shot, but it was called the shot heard around the world. Eight militiamen were killed. Outnumbered ten to one, the militiamen fell back, and the British regulars continued to advance towards Concord.
When the first British soldiers reached Concord, approximately 400 militia members had assembled to confront them. Each side fired volleys at the other, after which the British began their long retreat back to Boston. As the British retreated to Boston, more and more militiamen arrived and joined the fight. By the time the British soldiers arrived back in Boston, they had suffered 73 killed, 173 wounded, and 26 missing.
Veterans Day honors all of those who have served our country in war or in peace. The militia members who ran to defend Lexington and Concord from the British are examples of the millions of Americans who have gallantly answered the call to serve their country throughout history. We are grateful for their dedication to duty, honor, and the dignity they displayed through their service to America.
The members of the BPE Law Group wish you the very best this Veterans Day as we honor our veterans.
