Veteran of The Day – 5-13-26
SPOTLIGHT: Maj. George Croghan
United States Army — War of 1812
November 15, 1791 – January 8, 1849
Hometown: Louisville, Kentucky
George Croghan
A Young Officer Under Pressure
Major George Croghan was only 21 years old when he found himself commanding a small American force at Fort Stephenson in present-day Ohio.
British troops and Native allied forces advanced toward the fort in overwhelming numbers.
Croghan was ordered to withdraw.
He refused.
“We Shall Defend It”
Knowing retreat could expose the frontier, Croghan chose to stand and fight with barely more than 150 men.
Inside the fort:
- ammunition was limited
- manpower was thin
- the walls were vulnerable
Still, the defenders prepared for battle.
The Defense of Fort Stephenson
On August 2, 1813, British forces launched a direct assault.
Croghan waited until the attackers closed in.
Then:
- American cannon fire erupted at point-blank range
- The assault collapsed under devastating resistance
- British forces retreated in confusion
The small garrison had held.
A Symbol of Resolve
Croghan’s stand became one of the most celebrated defensive actions of the War of 1812.
He represented:
- courage under pressure
- leadership beyond his years
- determination against impossible odds
Reflection
Sometimes history turns because a handful of people refuse to abandon their ground.
George Croghan defended more than a fort that day.
He defended the confidence of a young nation.
Decorations & Honors
Congressional Gold Medal
Final Resting Place
Maj. George Croghan rests with honor at Locust Grove Cemetery, Kentucky.
The Micky Spano Radio Show proudly honors Major George Croghan, United States Army, as Veteran of the Day for May 13, 2026, remembering his courage, his leadership, and his defense of Fort Stephenson during the War of 1812.
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