Today we take a look back at General George Washington. Arguably our most famous president if not our best. What was he like? What characterized him? During the American War of Independence, there were particular problems that our people faced which almost resulted in a different outcome. George Washington was providentially given to our nation. The retreat from Brooklyn to Manhattan was a key step in the war. It was virtually, the American Dunkirk. It had to take place under cover of darkness. The guns, smaller cannon were moved first. The troops in Brooklyn were not informed of the coming evacuation until the last minute. This, so as to not have intelligence leaks to the enemy. Small details tipped towards the Americans. At just the right time. The troops finally started to realize that they had to return to New York, if they were to survive. The boats often were so loaded with troops, that many were a mere 3 inches above the water. The Americans worked through the night and in the end, thousands of troops of the Continental Army were transported across the East River, safely. As dawn appeared, there were still regiments yet to embark. It would take a miracle to survive. Providentially, a thick fog appeared. That fog, cloaked the rest of the escape. One soldier noted that he could barely make out the form of a man at 6'. The water became smooth as the fog rose. Finally, more than 9000 men safely escaped, including field artillery, the most valuable of the heavy ordnance, ammunition, provision, cattle, horses, etc. It was quite miraculous. Commander in Chief George Washington was the last to cross the river. The entire retreat took less than 13 hours. The Continental Army and the future America was saved.