On this day 250 years ago, off the Virginia Capes (in other words the entrance to the Chesapeake Bay), the brig USS Lexington, with about 20 guns and a crew of around 100 men commanded by Captain John Barry captured the smaller British sloop HMS Edward after an hour-long fight. Two American sailors were killed and another two wounded in the battle. This engagement is credited by some historians as the first victory of the Continental Navy although other battles can make the same claim. However, it certainly began a long list of victories by Irish immigrant Barry, who is credited with John Paul Jones as the Father of the United States Navy.

In addition to John Barry we should remember and honor the service of the two sailors who gave their lives for American Liberty in this engagement 250 years ago today.

Source: https://kamcpherson.substack.com/p/first-american-naval-victory-of-the