I was reading in a military history journal [1] this last week and came across this amazing story. I was reminded of what leaders do.
January 15, 1777, in Fort Edward N.Y a tavern owner named Henry Francisco enlisted in the Continental Army. He went on to fight through the Saratoga campaign before he was discharged for medical reasons on April 20, 1778. Attached to Colonel Seth Warner's famed Green Mountain Boys regiment, Francisco saw action in the Battles of Hubbardton, Bennington, Freeman's Farm and ultimately at Bemis Heights. What was so unusual about this volunteer? He was 91 years old at the time of his enlistment.
The story is recorded that at the battle of Bennington a Captain Stafford sought to remove an old man of slender build with a slight stooped framed from the line before assaulting the redoubt [2]. Not desiring to be relegated to merely guarding the baggage, the old man came forward and addressed the captain and politely objected. "Not until I've had a shot at them first, Captain, if you please." His reply sparked a riotous cheer leading the Captain to send the men and the elderly warrior forward to the redoubt.
Francisco, an old warrior, refusing to be sidelined from the battle, inspired those around him when he answered the call.
Abraham was 100.
Moses was 80.
I'm turning 52.
As leaders, no matter what our age, may we answer the call in such a way, that our refusal to be sidelined spurs on those around us. Amen!
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1 comment:
That's some good thinking for us old timers. We may be tired, but the Lord never wants us out.
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