Washington.%0D%0A%0D%0AIn 1776, the American colonies began a war against Britain. The colonies wanted their independence. Many great men served in that war. But did you know that several women fought as well?%0D%0A%0D%0AOne of the most famous was a woman named Deborah Samson. Deborah wanted to help the colonies win their freedom. But at that time, women were not allowed to fight. So, in 1778, Deborah disguised herself as a young man. She joined the army under the name Robert Shirtliffe.%0D%0A%0D%0ADeborah thought she would be discovered after a few weeks. Instead, she served in the army for three years! She was even wounded twice. Once she was hit in the head with a sword. Later, a bullet struck her shoulder. Doctors bandaged her wounds, but no one discovered her secret.%0D%0A%0D%0AYears passed and Deborah continued to fight for the colonies. But after three years she became very ill. She was sent to a doctor, who finally discovered the truth. Imagine his surprise when he learned that Robert Shirtliffe was actually a woman.%0D%0A%0D%0AThe kind doctor did not reveal Deborah's secret right away. He took her into his home until she recovered. Then the doctor spoke to Deborah's commanding officer. Soon, "Robert Shirtliffe" was ordered to carry a message to General Geo
rge Washington.%0D%0A%0D%0ADeborah was nervous to be meeting the great General Washington. But she knew she had to follow orders. When she arrived at Washington's camp, she saluted him respectfully and handed him the message.%0D%0A%0D%0AAs General Washington read the message, he looked at Deborah curiously. He could sense that something was not quite right. He asked her to stay and speak with him.%0D%0A%0D%0ADeborah's heart pounded as she stood before the General. She knew her secret would soon be revealed.%0D%0A%0D%0A"Deborah, I have heard rumors that you are not who you say you are," General Washington said calmly.%0D%0A%0D%0ADeborah felt her face turn red. "Sir, I can explain," she stammered.%0D%0A%0D%0AAnd so Deborah told General Washington her remarkable story. She told him about her desire to fight for independence, about disguising herself as Robert Shirtliffe, and about her years of service in the army.%0D%0A%0D%0AGeneral Washington listened intently, his eyes never leaving Deborah's face. When she finished speaking, he smiled.%0D%0A%0D%0A"You are a courageous and extraordinary woman, Deborah," he said. "Your dedication to our cause is truly admirable."%0D%0A%0D%0ADeborah felt a sense of relief wash over her. She had been expecting a scolding or punishment. But instead, she was being praised by one of the greatest leaders of the American Revolution.%0D%0A%0D%0AFrom that day forward, Deborah's secret was known throughout the army. She was given an honorable discharge and was even awarded a small pension for her service.%0D%0A%0D%0ADeborah Samson's story is just one example of the brave and courageous women who fought for American independence. They may not always receive the recognition they deserve, but their contributions should never be forgotten.
