As I was doing a little research about the quote in my sig. I understand the name USS Chesapeake has only been used once after the original ship, by a tug I believe. The Chesapeake was "given up" to the Shannon by the remaining crew after both ships exchanged two complete broadside attacks. The Shannon was outfitted with more guns, and one in particular was set on her top deck to specifically take out the wheel of the enemy. With the Chesapeake losing steering on the first broadside, and her Captain being severely wounded, she was doomed. The Chesapeake had over 120 hits on her, the Shannon over 80.
The Chesapeake was hauled back to Halifax, her crew held for a while, then released. Upon returning to the U.S., several of the crew were court-martialed for not following Captain Lawrence's last orders. The ship was made sea worthy, sailed to England to work as a coastal merchant until it was dismantled. The words were made famous when printed on a War Flag held by Captain William Perry during the Battle of Lake Erie.
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The HMS Shannon vs. USS Chesapeake outside Boston Harbor June 1, 1813
USS Chesapeake Captain James Lawrence lay mortally wounded...
Quote:
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.."tell the men to fire faster, fight 'till she sinks,..boys don't give up the ship!"
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Last edited by CapnScurvy; 06-09-07 at 02:29 PM.
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