On June 17, 2025, the United States commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Bunker Hill. This historic event marked a pivotal moment in American history when patriots displayed remarkable bravery against a formidable British military force.
In April 1775, following the Battles of Lexington and Concord, a revolutionary spirit ignited across the American Colonies. By June of that year, thousands of Colonial militiamen from various states gathered around Boston to confront nearly 5,000 British soldiers. Their goal was to protect nearby towns and prevent further British expansion.
Colonial leaders responded quickly upon learning of British intentions to capture Charlestown peninsula. On June 16, over 1,000 militiamen led by Colonel William Prescott fortified Breed’s Hill in preparation for defense. The following day saw nearly 2,200 Redcoats launching an assault to dislodge the Americans. Despite being outnumbered and short on ammunition, Colonel Prescott famously instructed his troops: “Don’t fire until you see the whites of their eyes!”
The patriots repelled multiple waves of attacks with determination. In a third assault, facing depleted resources, they engaged in close combat with British forces. Although eventually forced to retreat, they inflicted heavy casualties—over 1,000 British soldiers compared to 450 Americans.
Charlestown lay in ruins post-battle; however, the morale victory belonged to the patriots. The battle demonstrated that once awakened, the cause for freedom could not be easily quelled.
President Donald J. Trump emphasized this enduring spirit in his proclamation marking this anniversary: “They sent a message to Britain and the entire world that the Americans would not be ruled by fear.” He continued by acknowledging those who defend and cherish their country today.
President Trump officially declared June 17 as a day of commemoration for this significant historical milestone.
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