THE JAG FILE
IT TOOK SOME GRIT ON NEW YEAR'S DAY, 1777
Whether you are casually interested or deeply rooted in American history, you have probably heard the story of General George Washington’s crossing of the Delaware on the night of December 25–26, 1776. While the morning attack on the Hessian garrison at Trenton, New Jersey, was successful, a second action at the same location just a week later would really test his men’s commitment to him and the war against Great Britain.
A NEW YEAR'S EVE PLEA
Following the quick defeat of the Hessian garrison at Trenton on December 26, Washington re-crossed the Delaware to return to his camp in Pennsylvania, to retrieve the remainder of his Army. On December 30, he moved his full force back to Trenton, forming his troops on the south side of Assunpink Creek.
At that moment, General Washington knew he faced a problem greater than the British Army: The enlistment period of all but
