The White House released a presidential message on July 5 commemorating the anniversary of the Battle of Chippawa, a significant victory for American forces over the British Army during the War of 1812. The message highlights how, on July 5, 1814, American soldiers faced and defeated seasoned British troops in open battle.
The statement outlines that Generals Winfield Scott and Jacob Brown were tasked with transforming an unorganized United States Army into a unified and disciplined force. According to the message, rigorous training in New York prepared these recruits to launch an offensive across the Niagara River onto Canadian soil by summer 1814.
Describing the events of July 5, it recounts how British columns advanced against American troops south of the Chippawa River in Upper Canada. The American Regulars moved forward under heavy fire, wearing gray coats instead of standard blue uniforms—a detail that reportedly led British forces to mistake them for inexperienced militia. The message states that when confronted with their steady advance and discipline, British General Phineas Riall exclaimed, “Those are Regulars, by God!” before his forces retreated from the field.
According to the statement, this triumph demonstrated that America’s army could overcome even elite opponents and marked a turning point in its military tradition. The president’s message connects this legacy to present-day celebrations marking 250 years since American independence.
“As we celebrate 250 years of glorious American Independence this year,” reads part of the statement, “we draw strength from the immortal heroes of the Battle of Chippawa.” It concludes by asserting that their courage continues to inspire today’s Armed Forces and citizens.