January 1778, Valley Forge, Pennsylvania. About 20 miles west of British occupied Philadelphia,

thousands of continental army troops endure a harsh winter housed in 1500 hastily built dirt floor log huts.

Many of the soldiers are without the boots, socks, or even coats they need to survive the conditions, let alone soldier forth with heavy odds stacked against them.

General George Washington's desperate appeals to Congress for the most basic supplies often go unanswered.

Outside a barracks, one circle of soldiers draws momentary comfort from the small crackling fire

melting a patch on the frozen ground.

Their fingers draw close to the flickering flames.

Suddenly, one soldier climbs to attention.

On your feet, lads, it's the general.

Clad in cream breeches, a navy blue coat, and a cloak lined with red.

Washington is mounted on a chestnut horse with a white blaze.

To his side is a young man, a protege they say, some call him Washington's surrogate son.

This elegant officer wears a uniform of similar fashion,

but George Washington was raised amidst Virginia farmers and trained in the military with no formal education.

This young Frenchman was born to the aristocracy and of ancient noble lineage.

So why is he here in this country a new nation desperately struggling for independence?

One year later in 1778 this young officer named Lafayette will write home to a friend.

The moment I heard of America I loved her.

The moment I knew she was fighting for freedom.

I burned with a desire to bleed for her.

And the moment I shall be able to serve her at any time and in any place in the world

will be the happiest of my life. It's American history hit and welcome returning listeners and new ones as well. Hope you enjoy.

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