During May, MBK residents continued their exploration of America the Great by getting to know those who inspired our nation through their bravery, conviction, helpfulness, honesty, and moral integrity.
According to the United States Department of the Interior, some of the most notable American Heroes include John Adams, Clara Barton, Daniel Boone, Benjamin Franklin, Martin Luther King, Jr. Jackie Robinson, Harriet Tubman, and Orville and Wilbur Wright. Likely, these are all names you’re familiar with for their impact on shaping this country, civil rights, and transportation. But do you know some of the more “uncommon American heroes?”
Deborah Sampson
Deborah Sampson was the only woman to earn a full military pension for serving in the Army during the Revolutionary War. In early 1782, she bound her breasts and joined the Army by enlisting as a man by the name of Robert Shurtleff. She was assigned to a light infantry unit, taking part in dangerous missions such as scouting, raiding parties, and foraging excursions. Sherman served 17 months before she fell ill and was discovered and then honorably discharged. In 1802 embarked on a year-long tour of lectures about her experiences, and during World War II, she had a liberty ship named after her.
James Armistead
Black slave turned spy, James Armistead joined the Army in 1781 after gaining consent from his owner. While serving under the Marquis de Lafayette, the commander of French forces allied with the American Continental Army, he successfully infiltrated British headquarters. He passed vital information to George Washington that led to crucial victories. After the Revolution, Armistead was praised for his dedication and role in the surrender at Yorktown. However, he was not eligible for emancipation under the Act of 1783 for slave-soldiers. In 1786, with the endorsement and help of Lafayette, the Virginia General Assembly emancipated him. He lived out his life, free, in New Kent County, Virginia, where he married and raised a large family.
In addition to learning about America’s historical heroes (known and lesser-known), MBK residents are also celebrating these heroes:
- Nurses (National Nurses Week 5/6-5/12)
- Mom, the mother of all heroes! (Mother’s Day 5/9)
- Our servicemen and women who heroically sacrificed their lives for our country (Memorial Day 5/31)
- Military spouses our nation’s silent heroes (Military Spouse Appreciation Day 5/7)
Do you have a hero in your life worth celebrating? After all, heroes are just people who do good for good, not for the glory. If you know someone who fits this bill, join us this month in thanking them for their impact and contribution.
