The New Hampshire Gazette And General Advertiser

Extract from GENERAL ORDERS.

Head-Quarters, Newburgh, August 17, 1782.

HONORARY badges of distinction are to be conferred on commissioned Officers and Soldiers of the Army who have served more than three years with bravery, fidelity and good conduct—for this purpose a narrow piece of white cloth of an angular form is to be fixed on the left arm on a uniform coat—Non-commissioned Officers and Soldiers who have served with equal reputation more than six years, are to be distinguished by two pieces of cloth set on parallel to each other in a similar form—Should any who are not entitled to these honors have insolence to assume the badges of them, they shall suffer severe punishment—On the other hand, it is expected those gallant men who are thus distinguished, will on all other occasions be trusted with particular confidence and consideration.

The General, ever desirous to cherish a virtuous ambition in his soldiers, as well as to foster and encourage every species of military merit, directs—That whenever any singularly meritorious action is performed, the author of it shall be permitted to wear on his facing over his left breast, the figure of a heart in purple cloth or silk, edged with narrow lace or bordering.

Not only instances of unusual gallantry, but also of extraordinary fidelity and essential service, in any way, shall meet with a due reward.

Before these favours can be conferred on any man, the particular fact or facts on which it is to be grounded, must be set forth to the Commander in Chief, accompanied with a certificate from the commanding officer of the regiment and brigade to which the candidate for reward belongs, or other incontestable proof; and upon granting it, the name and regiment of the person, with mention so certified, are to be enrolled in the book of merit, which will be kept at the orderly office.

Men who have merited the last distinction, to be suffered to pass all guards and sentinels which a non commissioned officer is suffered to pass.

The road to glory in a patriot army and a free country is thus opened to all—This order is also to have retrospect to the earliest stages of the war, and to be considered as a permanent one.