THIS DAY IN HISTORY

The Battle of Bennington

On August 16, 1777, a pivotal moment in our nation’s fight for independence unfolded near Bennington, Vermont. The Battle of Bennington, fought by brave American militiamen against British forces, was not only a military triumph but also a testament to the revolutionary ideals of liberty, self-governance, and the enduring faith that shaped our founding.

The Americans at Bennington fought a British detachment sent to seize vital supplies. Brigadier General John Stark led the effort. (He was a hero of Bunker Hill, and his motto of “Live Free or Die” became New Hampshire’s state motto in 1945.) Vermont’s Green Mountain Boys under Colonel Seth Warner also joined the efforts.

The resulting victory weakened the British campaign and paved the way for the Battle of Saratoga, a turning point which secured French support for our cause. 

Military chaplains played a vital role throughout the War for Independence, ministering to, and even taking up arms alongside the soldiers.

At Bennington, Chaplain Thomas Allen (known as the "Fighting Parson") led his soldiers in prayer before the battle, invoking God's blessing for victory. Another chaplain, David Avery, participated in the engagement, embodying the courage of faith in action.

George Washington himself championed military chaplains. He issued orders to ensure their presence and noted their ability to "animate the soldiery and impress them with a knowledge of the important rights we are contending for."

The sacrifices of chaplains and military during the War for Independence, as demonstrated in the Battle of Bennington, underscore the intertwining of faith and freedom that our Founding Fathers valued.

Read more in our article "Brave Soldiers of the Cross"!

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