Oliver Hazard Perry

“Nothing could intimidate, nothing dishearten, Perry. Depending on the native energies of his mind he was prepared for those difficulties, and he was also prepared to resist them.”

“Against a tenacious enemy, this young commodore bequeathed a legacy of combat leadership to future generations of naval officers.”

“He absolutely refused to admit, much less accept, defeat when he was literally beaten on Lake Erie. He was that rara avis in our history, the true hero-patriot.”

“The personal deportment of Captain Perry, throughout the day, was worthy of all praise. He did not quit his own vessel when she became useless, to retire from the battle, but to gain it; an end that was fully obtained, and an effort which resulted in triumph.”

“Of Captain Elliot, already so well known to the government, it would be almost superfluous to speak; in this action, he evinced his characteristic bravery and judgment; and, since the close of the action, has given me the most able and essential assistance.”

“Those officers and men who were immediately under my observation, evinced the greatest gallantry, and I have no doubt that all others conducted themselves as became American officers and seamen. Lieutenant Yarnall, first of the LAWRENCE, although several times wounded, refused to quit the deck. Midshipman Forrest (doing duty as lieutenant) and sailing master Taylor, were of great assistance to me.”

“We have met the enemy and they are ours. Two ships, two brigs, one schooner and one sloop.”

“I leave it to your discretion to strike or not, but the American colors must not be pulled down over my head today.”