Cool History - The Veterans Exempt
Veterans Exempt
Also known as the Veterans Exempt Flag, it represents one of the many groups that came together to form a patchwork of American forces. The Veterans Exempt, or Veteran Exempts, was a New York State militia group formed in July of 1812 and led by Captain Melvin Woolsey. The group was made up of Revolutionary War veterans who were otherwise exempt from military service due to their age, but who volunteered their service during the Battle of Plattsburgh nonetheless, and provided a valuable reserve in a time of crisis.
The Battle of Plattsburgh -
Also known as the Battle of Lake Champlain, this major turning point in the War of 1812 took place in Plattsburgh Bay on Lake Champlain.
With Britain already controlling Canada, both the Americans and the British recognized the importance of Plattsburgh as the gateway to New York’s waterways. And so, in early September 1814, a British army of nearly 10,000 well-trained, battle-hardened soldiers entered New York State from Canada and advanced toward Plattsburgh, where they waited to engage with American forces until their naval fleet arrived.
Outnumbered & Underpowered
At dawn on September 11, 1814 the battle began. American ground forces were outnumbered three to one, and the American naval ships were also underpowered. However, in a pivotal strategic move, U.S. Master Commandant Thomas MacDonough anchored his fleet in Plattsburgh Bay, forcing Captain George Downie and the British navy to sail around Cumberland Head peninsula, and allowing the U.S. to strike first.
American Victory
Within 20 minutes, a cannonball from the USS Saratoga struck Britain’s Confiance, killing Captain Downie. The battle continued for another two hours, with the three ships on each side taking on considerable damage.
However, in yet another brilliant strategic move, MacDonough was able to maneuver the Saratoga so that its unharmed side faced the Confiance. With inexperienced gunners, no leader and severe damage, the Confiance was unable to do the same, and with one final devastating blow, the British ships were forced surrender.
Realizing it would be impossible to control the area and resupply ground forces without control of Lake Champlain, the British Army was forced to retreat, as well, despite a considerable advantage over the Americans.
The American victory on Lake Champlain boosted morale, put an end to Britain’s plans to seize more American territory, and ultimately encouraged peace negotiations between the U.S. and England. On December 24, 1814, the Treaty of Ghent was signed, officially ending the War of 1812.
