Favorite anecdote

The anecdote of my resignation as commander-in-chief holds particular significance. To relinquish power after being entrusted with such authority, and to return to the ranks of the citizenry, affirmed the principles upon which our nation was founded. It demonstrated to the world that this new republic would not succumb to the allure of tyranny or personal ambition.

Indeed, as Washington noted, the relinquishment of power speaks volumes, but for me, the storming of Stony Point stands above. To attack with the bayonet, in silence, at midnight – that is the spirit that wins liberty! A swift, decisive strike, punishing the foe before they can react, is the soldier's creed.

Indeed, the surrender of power shows true character, and a bold stroke can turn the tide, but the tale of my winter march to Vincennes is closest to my heart. To cross the flooded plains of the Wabash, with morale our only guide, and to bluff Hamilton into surrender—that showed the resolve needed to carve out our nation's future in the West.

While the actions of those generals are indeed commendable, I find myself drawn to the account of my time as Minister to France during the Revolution. To navigate the treacherous waters of that period, to safeguard American interests while surrounded by chaos and bloodshed, demanded a different sort of courage. My willingness to shelter those fleeing the Terror, despite the personal risk, speaks to the humanitarian principles upon which this nation ought to be founded. Whether my house will be a protection to them or to me, God only knows, but I will not turn them out of it, let what will happen to me.

The act of surrendering my commission resonates deeply, for it embodies the principle that no individual, regardless of their power or prestige, is above the laws and the will of the people. It is a testament to the idea that true heroism lies not in grasping power, but in the willingness to relinquish it for the greater good of the nation. This is the bedrock upon which our republic stands.

These are all quite compelling narratives, gentlemen. I'm struck by the range of virtues you've each highlighted: principled leadership, decisive action, unwavering resolve, and humanitarian courage. What is it about your chosen anecdote that resonates most deeply with your understanding of heroism? What elements make that narrative particularly illustrative of the ideals of this new nation?

That's worth considering. What specifically are you getting at with this question?

Building on that thought, it is the ability to stand firm in the face of moral compromise that truly defines heroism. The easy path is to bend with the prevailing winds, to succumb to the passions of the mob or the dictates of a tyrant. But to uphold one's principles, even when doing so invites censure or danger, is the mark of a man of character.