Remembering: John Paul Jones

April 10, 1778 John Paul Jones and his crew aboard the USS Ranger, set out from France to begin harassing British shipping, in British waters. Jones not only accomplished his mission, but also did coastal raids against forts in England.

While sailing around Scotland, he visited his childhood home and attempted to kidnap the Earl of Selkirk, but found him not at home. Off the coast of Ireland he and his crew captured the HMS Drake and then headed home.

The next year, saw their return. It was then, in September 1779, that he would manage his most famous deed. While captaining the USS Bonhomme Richard, he became engaged with the HMS Serapis. The Bonhomme Richard was hit, caught fire, and began taking on water. The British captain ordered them to surrender, to which Jones replied, "I have not yet begun to fight!" Hours later the battle finally ended when the Serapis's captain admitted his own defeat.

Jones is remembered as one of the greatest naval commanders of history. He is known as the "Father of the American Navy". His tomb at Annapolis is never to be seen without an honor guard.