This Week in Army History: 12 – 18 April

18 April 1775
(National Archives)
(National Archives)

A provisional brigade of 700 British light infantry, grenadiers, and marines is organized for a “powder” raid on Concord, Massachusetts. On the night of the 18th, the force departs Boston on longboats, crossing the Charles River. The embarkation is disorganized and slow, giving American alarm riders time to carry warnings to the countryside.