LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the 250th Anniversary of Peter
Francisco's arrival in America on March 15, 2015

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate the 250th
Anniversary of Peter Francisco's arrival in America; the descendants of
Peter Francisco will be celebrating this event on Sunday, March 15,
2015; and
WHEREAS, Peter Francisco was a hero of the Revolutionary War whose
feats of strength and courage helped our country on its path to freedom;
and
WHEREAS, Born in Portugal, this remarkable man emigrated to America as
a child, and joined the Continental Army at the age of 16; and
WHEREAS, Peter Francisco participated in numerous historic battles,
including the battle at New York's Stony Point; he became known as the
"Hercules of the Revolution" for his remarkable achievements during the
storming of the fort; he also served at such other important New York
sites as Fort West Point, White Plains, and Camp Ramapaugh; and
WHEREAS, During his military career, Peter Francisco saved the life of
his commanding officer, and was wounded several times in battle; he also
served as the bodyguard for General Lafayette, and personally witnessed
the surrender of Lord Cornwallis at Yorktown; and
WHEREAS, Peter Francisco's outstanding bravery and fortitude, as well
as his loyalty and patriotism, earned him the respect and gratitude of
General George Washington; and
WHEREAS, Following the Revolutionary War, Peter Francisco served as a
Sergeant-at-Arms of the Virginia House of Delegates, and continued his
unwavering commitment to ensuring the rights and freedoms of his fellow
citizens; and
WHEREAS, One of the many brave Americans of Portuguese descent who
fought for his country's liberty over the years, Peter Francisco remains
a towering figure in United States history, and an inspiration to all;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 250th Anniversary of Peter Francisco's arrival in Ameri-
ca; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the Society of the Descendants of Peter Francisco.