[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 142 (Wednesday, September 13, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1768]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


 TRIBUTE TO REVOLUTIONARY WAR HERO COMMODORE JOHN BARRY SEPTEMBER 13, 
                                  1995

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                            HON. CURT WELDON

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 13, 1995
  Mr. WELDON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer a 
tribute to a great Revolutionary War Hero, Commodore John Barry.
  This year we celebrate the 250th anniversary of Commodore Barry's 
birth. Born in 1745 in Ireland, he moved to Philadelphia approximately 
15 years later, where he prospered as a shipmaster and owner. While in 
Philadelphia, he became a strong supporter of the Revolution, fervently 
espousing the doctrine of independence from the British Government. 
When the Revolution broke out, he enthusiastically offered his services 
to the Continental Congress, which gave him an independent command as 
captain of the brig Lexington. Less than 1 month after his commission, 
Captain Barry captured the first British warship to be taken under 
Continental Congress authority.
  Recognizing his great service in the fight for independence, the 
Continental Congress issued him another commission, as captain of the 
Effingham. Despite his eagerness to serve the cause, he was unable to 
launch the 32 gun vessel owing to the British occupation of 
Philadelphia. Nevertheless, using his ingenuity, resolve, and 
dedication to the Colonies, Captain Barry, with four small boats, 
captured two transports and a schooner during a daring raid in lower 
Delaware. This gallant effort brought the due praise of General 
Washington.
  Receiving another command aboard the Raleigh, Barry stubbornly 
defended the vessel against superior forces when confronted by the 
British on September 28, 1778. Outgunned, he was forced to beach the 
ship, but managed to save most of his crew. In 1781, Barry took command 
of the Alliance, and defeated the sloops H.M.S. Atalanta and H.M.S. 
Trepassey. In the last sea battle of the Revolution, Barry defeated the 
H.M.S. Sybil, adding this final victory of his list of successes in 
fighting for our young Nation.
  After the Revolution, in 1794, Barry was named the senior captain of 
the U.S. Navy. Four years latter, President George Washington 
recognized Barry's enormous contribution to our independence, 
appointing him commodore. He served as the head of the U.S. Navy until 
his death, on September 12, 1803.
  Commodore Barry's distinguished service to our country reminds us of 
the challenges that we, as a young nation, faced during our struggle 
for independence. Now, as we approach the 21st century, we should 
reflect back upon the heros of our past, to remind ourselves of their 
efforts to improve our great Nation. By following their example, we can 
prosper in this new era. Indeed, we face a promising future if we 
conduct ourselves with the same honor, courage, and dedication as did 
Commodore John Barry.


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