NY, USA
Washington Assigns Wayne to Command Light Infantry Corps
June 21, 1779
Washington formally assigned Brigadier General Anthony Wayne to command the newly organized Continental Light Infantry Corps — approximately 1,350 picked men drawn from multiple regiments for rapid offensive operations. The assignment came with an implicit understanding that Wayne would be used against Stony Point. Intelligence collection on the fort's defenses through Lee's cavalry and McLane's scouts was already underway.
People Involved
Pennsylvania Continental general known as "Mad Anthony." Commanded the light infantry corps that stormed Stony Point July 15–16, 1779 in a bayonet-only night assault. Awarded a Congressional gold medal. Later served at Yorktown and commanded the Legion of the United States on the northwestern frontier.
Commander-in-Chief who personally scouted and approved the Stony Point assault plan, then with strategic clarity ordered the fort demolished and abandoned after the victory rather than expend unavailable forces defending an exposed position.
Delaware Continental captain who infiltrated Stony Point before the assault, posing as a civilian to observe British defenses. His firsthand intelligence on abatis positions, sentry placement, and interior layout directly shaped the final attack plan. One of the most effective intelligence operatives on the Continental side.