Battles & Wars

Assan Beach, the 2,500-yard shoreline stretching between Punta Adilok (Adelup Point) and Punta Assan (Asan Point), which the Marines in World War II called a "pair of devil horns," is a poignant symbol of the Guam's complex history, blending indigenous CHamoru traditions, wartime struggle, and ongoing military presence. In many ways, the story of Guam can be read through the story of Assan Beach. Talk a walk through history at Assan Beach.

Charles Lee, former British Army officer, became the second highest ranking general of the Continental Army during the American Revolution. On June 28, 1776 he oversaw the victory at the Battle of Sullivan's Island in Charleston, SC. Two years later, his retreat on the field at the Battle of Monmouth Courthouse would result in his court martial and the end of his military career. Learn more about this controversial figure here.

Horatio Gates, a former British army officer, settled in Virginia in the 1770s and volunteered for service with the Continental Army after the American Revolution began. Commissioned a major general, Gates famously commanded the northern army that defeated British General John Burgoyne's army at Saratoga in 1777, a major turning point in the war. Gates, a favorite of Congress, was later assigned to the Southern Department where his military career ended in defeat at Camden.

PFC Samuel Lee McDonald an African American soldier who served during the Vietnam War, buried in the Gettysburg National Cemetery.

PVT Emmer Martin 9th Ohio Volunteer Infantry Battalion, Spanish American War.

PVT Nicholas Ferrell was an African American soldier who served during the Spanish American War. Nicholas is buried in the Gettysburg National Cemetery.

Pvt. Clifford Henderson Company A, 9th Ohio Regiment.

SSGT Calvin Charles Rice, an African American soldier died while in service during the Vietnam War.

Imagine the fear you might have marching into battle with guns blazing all around you. Imagine the courage it took to charge an enemy when their cannons thundered at you from a fortified hilltop. Imagine fighting in a foreign country far from home against a determined foe and waging a war that half of your country opposes. Imagine putting your life in danger on a daily basis. Such was the experience of Fort Scott soldiers during the Mexican-American War.

Thomas Sumter, the Carolina Gamecock, led South Carolina militia in resistance to British rule from 1780 through 1781, keeping the Patriot cause alive.