June 28, 1778 · Middle Theater
June 28, 1778
When the British evacuated Philadelphia after France entered the war, Washington pursued. General Charles Lee ordered an inexplicable retreat just as battle was joined. Washington rode furiously to the front and, reportedly furious, relieved Lee on the spot and turned the retreat into a battle. The Continental Army fought the British regulars to a standstill in 100-degree heat — the professional army Valley Forge had created proved itself equal to the redcoats. Molly Pitcher legend originates here.
Commanders