Washington and the Troops

WASHINGTON TAKES COMMAND OF THE CONTINENTAL ARMY

Now, John Hancock was first to tender his name

On the letter which set all England aflame.

‘Twas high treason he knew, but he signed it so large

Just to be sure it’d be seen by King George!

And to dare as they did, these men in their manner

Pledged their lives and their fortunes, and their sacred honor.

Yes, Jefferson and Adams, Ben Franklin and more

All bravely took heart on that July number 4.

And meeting in Philly, they did more than just write,

Enlisting George Washington to lead in the fight.

A man trusted by all and well-suited to lead,

A choice truly perfect to meet their great need.

But while George was eager to take up the cause,

The troops he was given gave him reason to pause:

These men came from their farms, they were rowdy and rough,

--And a bet of long-odds that they could fight well enough.

With no ounce of training, no spot of discipline,

-- As rag-tag an outfit as you might pick from a bin.

Who trusted very little the paper money disbursed,

And whose guns, food and clothing could have hardly been worse.

And at times they’d go home, forsaking the battle,

In order to tend to their harvest and cattle.

-- Well, just imagine a fight, on your left and your right,

With but little to eat and no payment in sight!

But Washington was firm and commanded respect,

And got more from his men than anyone could expect.

Indeed, they followed his lead and obeyed what he said,

With great faith in his word, even cold and unfed.

And unlike the redcoats, who were so far from home,

Their cause was more dear: a place of their own.

So when victories for Britain started to mount

These brave soldiers refused to stay down for the count.