Man of Steel

July 9, 1755: The French & Indian War, an extension of the European Seven Years War, was roughly a year underway in the New World. On this particular day, A young 23 year old colonel found himself on the losing end of what would become known as The Battle of Monongahela.

For two terrifying hours, the colonel rode back & forth on the battlefield, delivering the general's orders to various officers & troops. The officers had been a specific target for the Indians. Of the eighty-six British & American officers, sixty-three would lose their lives that day. But this young man would be the only officer on horseback not shot down.

Following the battle, a note penned to the soldier's brother would state:

"By the all-powerful dispensations of Providence, I have been protected beyond all human probability or expectation; for I had four bullets through my coat, & two horses shot under me, yet I escaped unhurt, although death was leveling my companions on every side of me!"


The journals of Benjamin Franklin & other noted historians through the years would bring further testimony of the event. But perhaps the best witness would come from none other than the opposition itself... some fifteen years later.


"I am chief & ruler over my tribes. My influence extends to the waters of the great lakes & to the far blue mountains. I have traveled a long & weary path that I might see the young warrior of the great battle. It was on the day when the white man's blood mixed with the streams of our forest that I first beheld this chief ...I called to my young men & said...Quick, let your aim be certain, & he dies. Our rifles were leveled, rifles which, but for you, knew not how to miss--'twas all in vain, a power mightier far than we, shielded you...I am come to pay homage to the man who is the particular favorite of Heaven, & who can never die in battle."


But this would not be the only time the young colonel would defy bullets & certain destruction. It was stated years later during the American Revolution he again was thrust to the front lines on horseback during the Battle of Monmouth. Again the enemy sharp shooters took careful aim, but to no avail.

The subject in question you ask? None other than the father of our country-General George Washington. Who says God isn't on our side? ;0)

Pictured: Prayer at Valley Forge