It was September 11 of 1814, during the "forgotten" War of 1812, and the future of American independence was on the line. The most powerful military force in the world, the British Royal Navy, had positioned a massive naval blockade all along the American Atlantic coast to the Gulf of Mexico, slowly strangling the infant United States. The invasion of Washington, D.C. by Lord Wellington's "Invincibles" the month before had resulted in the burning of the Capitol and White House, scattering Congress and the President to the wind. In the largest assembly of fighters during the entire war, the people and city of Baltimore were targeted by the British as a hated "nest of pirates". At noon that Sunday, church bells sounded the alarm as 50 war ships of the British navy appeared within sight of Fort McHenry! Against all odds, one American heroically led the defense that saved his beloved city. Five weeks later, upon hearing the news of the Battle of Baltimore in London, the British government finally agreed to end the war. Baltimore and America were saved as Sam Smith became a military hero for the second time in his illustrious life. The fruits of his efforts are recorded in our National Anthem, The Star Spangled Banner, and the results of his deeds are forever emblazoned on every American heart. This is the incredible true story of just what can happen "when freemen shall stand!" Here is a tribute to the un-sung patriot and his life of leadership and service. Smith is a bold example of true American heroism and wisdom from one of the darkest days of our existence as a free people. Inspiring us all today, this book is the authors' tribute to the early Republic, and Sam Smith's fight for freedom and liberty. Revealed for the first time are the all important leadership lessons which teach us how one American can make all the difference in preserving the "land of the free and the home of the brave."
About the Author: Born and raised in Southern California, Robert has traveled across America and Europe, having lived abroad for 7 years. He is passionate about travel, history, current events and global trends. Robert is a full-time writer, residing in Frederick Maryland with his wife, Connie. He participates in leadership training in the Baltimore area in cooperation with his co-author, Dr. Marc DeSimone. Robert has served as a National Finals Judge for the National History Day competitions held annually at the University of Maryland at College Park (see nhd.org). Robert holds a Bachelor degree in General Liberal Arts (Magna cum laude), a Master of Science in Environmental Biology, and an MBA. You can find him on linked-in.