The following is the first installment of “On This Day,” a new series celebrating America’s 250th anniversary by following the actions of Gen. George Washington, the Continental Congress, and the men and women whose bravery and sacrifice led up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Jan. 2, 1776

Head Quarters, Cambridge

Gen. George Washington, writing in his General Orders for the day, took a decidedly stern tone while imposing order on his newly re-formed Continental Army: 

“That every Officer may be perfectly well acquainted with the establishment of the present Army, in Order that they may be governed by it, and make the Returns agreeable thereto—The General informs them,........

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