USA, War of Independance Medal, 1781 

• 1975 
• Commemorative tokens 

  + 1

  Imitations (Fake)
• Verenigde Staten 
• America's First Medals 

4238729

Tokens / Medals

USA, War of Independance Medal, 1781

Commemorative tokens, Imitations (Fake)

1975

Lt. Col. John E. Howard mounted, (Latin) "The American Congress to John Eager Howard, commander of a regiment of infantry."

Inscription (Latin) "Because by rushing suddenly on the wavering lines of the enemy, he gave a brilliant example of martial courage at the battle of the Cowpens, January 1781"

LT. Col. John E. Howard is honored on the seventh medal of the series "Americas First Medals" for his actions in command of the main line of regulars at the Battle of Cowpens. Given the propensity of undisciplined militia to turn and run when things got heated in battle, General Morgan stationed three lines of troops in preparedness for a frontal assault by British regulars and loyalist militia. The first line were skirmishers who were ordered to fire on the British attacking force and then to turn and retreat to the second line. The second line was made up of undisciplined militia who were ordered to fire two volleys at the advancing British and then stage an orderly retreat to the left flank. The third line, under Howard, was to take the full brunt of the British assault. Upon the collapse of the first two lines the British felt they had achieved quick and easy victory but instead ran into deadly fire and a bayonet attack from Howards troops. The counterattack was totally unexpected by the British and many just laid down their arms and surrendered on the spot. At one point Colonel Howard held in his hands the swords of seven British officers who had surrendered to him. For his actions He was awarded a medal for his courageous leadership. The original medal was struck in silver and engraved by Pierre Simon Benjamin Duvivier, chief engraver of the Paris Mint.