17. General Orders Regarding Promotions

Washington, George. George Washington Papers, Series 3, Varick Transcripts, -1785, Subseries 3G, General Orders, -1783, Letterbook 1: July 3,- Sept. 30, 1776. August 9, 1775, 1775. Manuscript/Mixed Material. Library of Congress.

The Battle at Bunker’s Hill / drawn by Henry A. Thomas. United States Boston Massachusetts, ca. 1875. Boston: C. Frank King. Photograph.

Washington established a policy of promotion based on merit rather than family connections or purchased advancement as was frequently the case in the British army.

"As there are several Vacancies in the different Regiments, if there are any particular Gentlemen, who signalized themselves in the Action on Bunkers hill, by their spirited behaviour and good conduct, and of which, sufficient proof is adduced to the General; He will, in filling up the Commissions, use his endeavours to have them appointed (if not already Commission’d) to some Office, or promoted if they are; as it will give him infinite pleasure at all times to reward Merit, wherever it is to be found."

George Washington, General Orders, 9 August 1775

Sources

founders.archives.gov
https://history.army.mil/Publications/Publications-Catalog/The-Canadian-Campaign/

Visit the Museum

Exhibits

Army Trails

Public Programs

Programs & Education

Events

News and Articles

About Us

Get Involved