Post by U.S. Navy Reserve

250 years ago, the Continental Congress commissioned over 2,000 privateers to disrupt British shipping and fight for American independence. While the “Continental Navy” had fewer than 30 ships, compared to Britain's 270, it produced the nation’s first corps of skilled naval officers who were ready to answer the call to fight and win at sea. Amongst them, John Paul Jones, celebrated as the “Father of the American Navy” joined the Continental Navy in 1775 leading daring raids on British waters and famously capturing HMS Serapis in 1779 during the Battle of Flamborough Head with his defiant cry, “I have not yet begun to fight!” Their legacy continues in today's Navy Reserve — Sailors who raise their right hand and stand ready to answer the call. As we celebrate America's 250th birthday, we honor the nation’s first citizen-sailors and today’s Reserve Sailors who carry their spirit forward.