John Montgomery, Revolutionary Fifer
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"King George would rather go to was than stop all this taxation. George Washington was put in charge by the Congress. He is a good officer and has a lot of experience." Mr Montgomery notioned his wife to sit in the rocking chair. He moved and sat beside Reed on the step. "Does he know much about fighting the British?" she asked, her voice filled with worry. "Well, Martha, he is an honorable man and a patriot. He will do the best he can, as we all will,: Mr. Reed said hopefully. "Amen to that," whispered Montgomery. "We'll fight, too," The young brothers said with conviction. "John, A;lex, you are too young." "But, Mother , we know how to shoot a gun, just ask the rabbits here about," bragged John, his blue eyes bright. His mother smiled, ruffled his dark brown hair with her hand. "That's right. I need you boys her to shoot rabbits so we can have rabbit stew." To her husband Martha Montgomery spoke, "I am worried about this war. War means lives are lost . And as you know, we don't even have a big army. The Red Coats are well equipped with guns, and cannons." But dear, that is what Washington will do, he is organizing an army. And he will be a good general. He has had experience fighting Indians. We have all had experience fighting Indians.' Alexander Montgomery said with a catch in his voice. He absently touched the jagged scar where a shawnee war club had grazed his arm. "I remember those battles very well."
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About the Book
Thirteen-year-old John Montgomery is told he is too young to become a soldier when both his father and fifteen-year-old brother sign up to fight the British Redcoats in 1777. It’s true that the colonists desperately need soldiers, but they also need fifers, and that’s where John knows he can contribute. He understands that fifers play an important role in battles; fifers are the soldiers who pipe orders to the men. Fifers—and drummers, too—lead the army into battle, and he could do that. During his five years of army service as a fifer, he participates in many battles, including the pivotal Guildford Court House Battle. As John comes of age during the war, he learns about sacrifice, thoughtfulness, and kindness while he fights his own battle against homesickness. Based on a true story, John Montgomery, Revolutionary War Fifer shows the heroics of the men who became soldiers as they fought alongside other colonists to obtain their freedom from the British.
About the Author
Pat Duffy is a retired teacher with an avid interest in history. She lives in Orange County, California.