On This Day: With funds and reinforcements in hand, Washington returns to New York ready for battle

The following is an installment of “On This Day,” a series celebrating America’s 250th anniversary by following the actions of Gen. George Washington, the Continental Congress, and the men and women whose bravery and sacrifice led up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

In Philadelphia, the Second Continental Congress finalizes military measures developed in consultation with Gen. George Washington. It authorizes militia reinforcements, approves defensive naval preparations for New York Harbor, and organizes what will become the “flying camp,” a mobile reserve force for the middle colonies.

John Hancock, the president of the Second Continental Congress, writes Washington, thanking him for his “military Knowledge & Experience.” 

John Hancock to George Washington, 3 June 1776

Philadelphia June 3d 1776.

Sir,

I am extremely sorry it is not in my Power to wait on you in Person to execute the Commands of Congress. But being deprived of that Pleasure by a severe