The Early History of the U.S. Army: Lessons for SHIELD of VALOR Warriors

By Andy Falco Jimenez
Published: June 14, 2025, 06:37 AM PDT | SHIELD of VALOR Blog

Welcome, men of valor, to a journey through the early history of the U.S. Army—a story of courage, resilience, and leadership that resonates deeply with the mission of SHIELD of VALOR. As we prepare to launch this transformative program in 2026, we draw inspiration from the biblical principles of Strength, Honor, Inspiration, Endurance, Leadership, Devotion of Vision, Action, Loyalty, Overcoming, Redemption, and the example of Joseph in Genesis. The early days of the U.S. Army offer powerful lessons for Christian men, fathers, and young men committed to raising a generation of godly warriors. Let’s explore this history and uncover how it aligns with our call to stand firm in Christ.

The Birth of the Continental Army: A Call to Strength and Leadership
The U.S. Army traces its origins to June 14, 1775—exactly 250 years ago today—when the Continental Congress established the Continental Army to fight for American independence. This was no spontaneous decision; it was a response to the escalating conflict with British forces, sparked by the Battles of Lexington and Concord two months earlier. The Congress appointed George Washington as Commander-in-Chief, a man whose leadership would shape the fledgling army and the nation. Washington, a Virginia planter with military experience from the French and Indian War, brought a vision of unity and resolve to a ragtag group of colonial militias.
For SHIELD of VALOR, this moment reflects Strength and Leadership. Just as Washington rallied untrained men to stand against a formidable enemy, we are called to lead with godly strength, drawing from Philippians 4:13: “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” The Continental Army’s early struggles—lack of supplies, discipline, and experience—mirror the trials Joseph faced in Genesis 39:19-20, sold into slavery and imprisoned. Yet, like Joseph, who rose to save nations (Genesis 41:41-43), Washington’s leadership transformed adversity into victory. Men, your strength in Christ can guide young men through their battles, forging them into leaders for God’s kingdom.

Endurance Through the Valley Forge Winter: A Test of Faith
The winter of 1777-1778 at Valley Forge stands as a defining chapter in the Army’s early history. With the Continental Army encamped in harsh conditions—freezing temperatures, scarce food, and inadequate clothing—thousands faced starvation and disease. Historians estimate that nearly 2,500 soldiers died, yet the survivors emerged hardened and disciplined under Washington’s guidance. This endurance was bolstered by the arrival of Baron von Steuben, a Prussian drillmaster who trained the troops, turning them into a cohesive fighting force.

This endurance aligns with SHIELD of VALOR’s pillar of Endurance. James 1:2-3 urges, “Consider it pure joy… whenever you face trials… because the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” The Valley Forge winter tested the Army’s faith and resolve, much like Joseph’s years in prison tested his. His perseverance led to his elevation (Genesis 50:20-21), and the Army’s endurance paved the way for victories at Monmouth and beyond. Fathers and mentors, teach your boys to endure trials with faith, knowing that God refines us through hardship to prepare us for greater purpose.

Honor and Devotion: The Code of Conduct
The early U.S. Army was built on a code of honor and devotion, reflected in the soldiers’ commitment to the cause of liberty. Despite the odds, they fought not for personal gain but for a vision of a free nation under God. This honor is echoed in the Army’s early reliance on chaplains, who provided spiritual guidance and prayer, reinforcing the soldiers’ devotion to a higher calling. The Declaration of Independence, adopted in 1776, invoked “the protection of divine Providence,” underscoring this devotion.

SHIELD of VALOR calls men to live with Honor and Devotion, as Psalm 119:11 declares, “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” Joseph honored God by resisting temptation (Genesis 39:9-10), and the Army’s soldiers honored their commitment despite suffering. We challenge men to devote themselves to God’s Word, mentoring boys to stand firm in integrity. Through Bible studies and service projects, SHIELD of VALOR cultivates this devotion, building men who reflect Christ’s character.

Vision and Action: From Defeat to Victory
The early Army faced numerous defeats, such as the loss at Brandywine in 1777, but these setbacks fueled a vision for victory. Washington’s bold action—crossing the Delaware River on Christmas night 1776 to surprise the Hessians at Trenton—turned the tide, boosting morale and proving that strategic action could overcome adversity. This vision and action culminated in the decisive victory at Yorktown in 1781, securing American independence.

In SHIELD of VALOR, Vision and Action are pillars that inspire men to see God’s plan and act decisively. Joseph’s vision of saving his family drove him to act with wisdom in Egypt (Genesis 41:46-49), reflecting Proverbs 29:18: “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” We equip men to mentor boys with a vision for a godly legacy, taking action through workshops and fitness drills to build resilient warriors. The Army’s journey from defeat to victory mirrors our call to overcome with faith and boldness.

Loyalty and Overcoming: A Bond Forged in Battle
The Continental Army’s loyalty to one another and their cause was forged in the crucible of battle. Soldiers endured together, sharing hardships and victories, creating a brotherhood that sustained them. This loyalty enabled them to overcome the overwhelming might of the British Empire, a testament to their resilience and unity.
SHIELD of VALOR emphasizes Loyalty and Overcoming, reflecting Romans 12:21: “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Joseph’s loyalty to his family led him to provide for them despite their betrayal (Genesis 50:21), and the Army’s unity overcame adversity. We train men to build “foxhole brothers”—loyal companions who sharpen one another (Proverbs 27:17)—and teach boys to overcome cultural lies with the peace of Christ, fostered through community and mentorship.

Redemption: A Nation and a Faith Renewed
The early U.S. Army’s success was not just a military victory but a redemption of a nation’s hope. The establishment of the Army on this day, 250 years ago, marked the beginning of a new identity under God’s providence, as invoked in the Declaration of Independence. This redemption parallels the spiritual renewal offered through Christ.
The pillar of Redemption in SHIELD of VALOR is rooted in 1 John 1:7: “The blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.” The Army’s redemption inspires us to lead boys to the cross, where they are washed clean and empowered to live as godly men. Through retreats and prayer, we foster this redemption, building a movement of men redeemed for God’s glory.

Conclusion: Lessons for SHIELD of VALOR Warriors
The early history of the U.S. Army teaches us that strength, endurance, honor, devotion, vision, action, loyalty, and overcoming are forged in the fire of trials—much like Joseph’s journey and the principles of SHIELD of VALOR. As we celebrate 250 years since its founding, let this history ignite your passion to mentor the next generation. Join us at resurrectministry.org to prepare for the 2026 launch, where we’ll equip men and boys to stand as godly warriors, reflecting the Lion of Judah (Revelation 5:5), for Christ’s kingdom!

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