Posted by Mike Slease on July 04, 2000 at 09:55:02:
Mohicanland friends--
Below is the text of a presentation speech I gave earlier this year to a worthy ROTC Cadet of the Bucknell University Bison Batallion. It bears repeating today---
"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. I, personally, and as President of the Tiadaghton Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution, am proud and honored to have a part in tonight’s Awards Ceremony.
The mission of the Tiadaghton Chapter and the National Society of the SAR is declared to be Patriotic, Historical and Educational. One of the many ways we endeavor to do accomplish this mission is to Perpetuate the memory of those patriots who, by their services or sacrifices during the war of the American Revolution, achieved the independence of the American people.
Tonight I stand before you wearing the uniform of the 5th Pennsylvania Battalion of the Continental Line. The 5th Bn was authorized in late 1775, was raised in early 1776, and was ordered to New York City, thence upriver to build and garrison Fort Washington. Many of its 598 members were taken prisoner when the British took Fort Washington, NY, on 16 November 1776, thanks to the desertion and treason of an officer. The enlisted men were released within a few weeks, and most promptly reenlisted in the 6th Pennsylvania Regiment, formed in January 1777, serving in and around New Jersey and southeastern Pennsylvania.. They served with distinction at the battles of Brandywine, Germantown, Whitemarsh, Valley Forge, Stony Point, Morristown, Paramus, and were eventually sent to help garrison West Point, finally being disbanded in 1783 with the whole of the army. Their spirit exemplifies that of the common private soldier of that time. He was willing to do what it took to break free of what he felt was an oppressive government, no matter what the cost to himself. Everyone in attendance here tonight owes his or her freedom to these men, and many more like them.
It is my distinct pleasure to present the Sons of the American Revolution Silver ROTC Medal to Cadet Phillip A. Deeble.
Phillip, this medal is presented to you in recognition of outstanding leadership qualities, military bearing and excellence, thus exemplifying the high ideals and principles which motivated and sustained our patriot ancestors. As you begin your career as an officer in the United States Army, keep in mind the Citizen Soldier and the sacrifices he made so that we can stand here today and enjoy the freedom from tyranny he fought so hard to win."
Let us always be thankful for them, our ancestors who made it possible for us today to have the freedoms we enjoy. May we never forget them.....Take time today to say your prayers of thanks.
Mike
a.k.a Seamus