Editing Daniel Morgan (section)

===11th Virginia Regiment and Morgan's Riflemen===
When he rejoined Washington early in 1777, Morgan was surprised to learn he had been promoted to [[colonel]] for his bravery at Quebec. He was ordered to raise and command a new infantry regiment, the [[11th Virginia Regiment]] of the Continental Line.

On June 13, 1777, Washington also gave Morgan command of the [[Morgan's Riflemen|Provisional Rifle Corps]], a [[light infantry]] force of 500 riflemen chosen from Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia regiments of the Continental Army. Morgan simultaneously led the 11th Virginia Regiment, his permanent unit, and this provisional unit.

Washington wrote the following letter to Morgan on August 16, 1777: "Sir: After you receive this, you will march, as soon as possible, with the corps under your command, to Peekskill, taking with you all the baggage belonging to it. When you arrive there, you will take directions from General Putnam, who, I expect, will have vessels provided to carry you to Albany. The approach of the enemy in that quarter has made a further reinforcement necessary, and I know of no corps so likely to check their progress, in proportion to its number, as that under your command. I have great dependence on you, your officers and men, and I am persuaded you will do honor to yourselves, and essential service to your country..... I am, sir, your most obedient servant George Washington."

Many were from his own 11th Regiment, including his friend Captain Gabriel Long, and Long's best snipers, including Corporals John Gassaway, Duncan MacDonald and Private Peter Carland. After their victory at Saratoga, Washington sent them to harass General [[William Howe, 5th Viscount Howe|William Howe]]'s rearguard, and Morgan did so during their entire withdrawal across [[New Jersey]].