"General Washington’s Surgeons — Inside the Continental" Topic

… Army's Medical Corps

"THE AMERICAN Revolutionary War has been very well documented, but surprisingly little has been written on the role of medical services during the conflict, particularly those of the armies of the rebellion. In fact, at the outset of hostilities, there was no medical arm of the Continental Army; patriot soldiers at the battles of Lexington and Concord paid local doctors to treat their wounds. Yet, with Washington's vital patronage, a proper service took shape remarkably quickly.

America's first foray into military medicine followed European lines with regimental surgeons in the field and doctors staffing the general hospitals. Progress was only slowed by Congress's weak financial support, confusion regarding the command structure, and vitriolic feuding between senior army doctors.

When the competent Dr. John Cochran became surgeon general of the Continental army in January 1781, he still faced considerable challenges, including a shortage of surgeons and medical supplies. The fourth officer to hold the post, his corps would face one of its greatest tests at the Battle of Yorktown…."

Main page

link

Armand