JOHN VAN TILE -- MEDAL FOR BRAVERY
It's been quite a while since I've seen any new postings here... so here goes.....
I'm not at all sure which Van Tile/Van Tuyl this is?Anybody know for sure?
steve koons, dayton, ohio
[email protected]
The first instance of the issue in America of medals to private soldiers for gallantry in times of war, is that of the Province of New Jersey, in 1758, reported in the "Boston News Letter" for September 28th of that year. The language of the Act of the Province ordering the execution of this medal, places the duty of thus honouring personal bravery on its proper footing:
"And whereas, it's not only strictly just, but highly prudent, to reward and encourage such Acts of Martial Bravery as have a Tendency to distress the Enemy and defend ourselves; And whereas, it is credibly reported that one John Van Tile, a Sergeant in the pay of this Colony, with a party of nine more under his Command, have lately exerted themselves against the Common Enemy upon the Frontiers of this Colony, in a signal Manner; and that a Lad aged about 17 years, sirnamed Titfort, when pursued by the Enemy, shot one of them, and secured his Retreat from the imminent Danger with which he was threatened, losing his Gun; Therefore, as a just Reward to the above Persons, and to excite others to immitate their heroic Example, Be it further enacted by the Authority aforesaid, That -- shall also procure for and present unto the said John Van Tile, and the said Lad, sirnamed Titfort, with a Silver Medal each, of the Size of a Dollar, whereon shall be inscribed the Bust or Figure of an Indian prostrate at the feet of the said Van Tile and Lad aforesaid, importing their victory over them, and to Commemorate their Bravery, and their Country's Gratitude on the Occasion. Which Medals the said Van Tile and Lad aforesaid, shall or may wear in View, at all such public Occasions which they may happen to attend to excite an Emulation, and kindle a Martial Fire in the Breast of the Spectators, so truly essential in this Time of general War."
More Replies:
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Re: JOHN VAN TILE -- MEDAL FOR BRAVERY
Rory Van Tuyl 8/02/08
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Re: JOHN VAN TILE -- MEDAL FOR BRAVERY
STEVE KOONS 8/02/08
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Re: JOHN VAN TILE -- MEDAL FOR BRAVERY