William Prescott
American colonel in the Revolutionary War / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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For other people named William Prescott, see William Prescott (disambiguation).
William Prescott (February 20, 1726 – October 13, 1795) was an American colonel in the Revolutionary War who commanded the patriot forces in the Battle of Bunker Hill. Prescott is known for his order to his soldiers, "Do not fire until you see the whites of their eyes", such that the rebel troops may shoot at the enemy at shorter ranges, and therefore more accurately and lethally, and so conserve their limited stocks of ammunition. It is debated whether Prescott or someone earlier coined this memorable saying.[1]
Quick Facts Born, Died ...
William Prescott | |
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Born | (1726-02-20)February 20, 1726 Groton, Province of Massachusetts Bay |
Died | October 13, 1795(1795-10-13) (aged 69) Pepperell, Massachusetts |
Allegiance | Kingdom of Great Britain United States |
Service/ | Massachusetts Militia Continental Army |
Years of service | 1745–1786 |
Rank | Colonel |
Battles/wars |
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