Speaker: I appoint Thomas Jefferson of Virginia, Benjamin Franklin of Pennsylvania, Robert R. Livingston of New York, Roger Sherman of Connecticut and John Adams of Massachusetts to draw up a declaration of independence. And now gentlemen, the American Army needs a head. Who shall it be?
P. Henry: I think Mr. Adams has a man in view.
Hancock: Mr. Adams.
Adams: I have but one man in mind, a gentleman from Virginia, whose skill and experience as an officer, whose independent fortune, great talents and excellent universal character would command the approbation of all America and unite the Colonies better than any other person in the Union. If you speak of solid information and sound judgment, Colonel Washington is unquestionably the greatest man on the floor.
Lee: Mr. President.
Hancock: Mr. Lee.
Lee: I nominate Colonel Washington as Commander in Chief of the American Army.
Member of Congress: I second that motion.
Hancock: It has been moved and seconded that Colonel Washington be made Commander in Chief of the American Army. All those in favor say Aye.