George Washington, First in our Hearts
George Washington, Father of our Country, is best know as the first president of the United States. What most do not realize is that he was first and foremost a soldier, beloved by both his officers and troops. His bravery, perseverance, and love for his country inspired his troops to overcome all odds to win freedom for their country. While alive his commanding physical presence and vigor, he stood 6'3” tall, projected strength to all that met him.
George Washington led by example to the men in his charge. In Valley Forge he stayed with the men rather than the more comfortable accommodations that were available to him. He endured hunger, cold and pain along side his men, lending them strength with his humility and pure physical stamina. Over seven years he led our rag tagged ancestors against the greatest fighting force the world had ever know. Not only did he lead them, he lead them to victory.
The end of the Revolutionary War brought discontent among his men. Army salaries, bounties, and life pensions were not being paid by the new government. Some soldiers had not been paid in two years. His officers feared that they and their troops would never be paid their rightful due. A meeting of the officers was held on March 15, 1783 to decide if they should overthrow Congress.
George Washington himself was at the meeting and addressed his men directly. Although his speech was not well received he none the less won their hearts and admiration. As he was reading a letter from a member of Congress written in very small writing he put on a pair of reading glasses saying “"Gentlemen, you will permit me to put on my spectacles, for I have not only grown gray but almost blind in the service of my country." Many of these hardened veterans of war were moved to tears to be in the presence of such greatness that for the love of his country he would admit that he is only a man, subject to the frailties of all men.
Washington served two terms as president before stepping down from the position to retire in 1797. He returned to Mount Vernon and his beloved wife Martha. Unfortunately his retirement was short lived his death came about on December 14, 1799 after a brief but painful illness. Even as he lay dying his concern for those around him was apparent. He apologized for his fragility and the strain it put upon family, friends, and servants.
The truth of George Washington was well said in his eulogy by Henry Lee “First in war, first in peace and first in the hearts of his countrymen...”