Forging the Vision : Nathanael Green
troops an example for others to emulate . Furthermore , Greene understood the broader context of military discipline , not only how discipline applied to combat , but how it also impacted public perception . 22
On the surface , military drills can seem mundane and burdensome , and it is something that soldiers complain about even today . However , at its core , drill provides soldiers with many practical and necessary skills . It instills instant obedience to orders , discipline , standardization , synchronization , and organization . In linear warfare , especially , these skills were of the utmost importance .
As a Private in the Kentish Guards , Greene participated in the drills of William Johnson three times per week for approximately eight months . While not an exorbitant amount of time , it seemed enough for Greene to comprehend its importance as drill became a priority for his troops when he took command of the Rhode Island forces . At his direction , his troops were required to drill and parade daily even after their arrival outside Boston . Every day at four o ’ clock , his troops “ mustered and paraded ” unless sick or otherwise engaged . 23
The discipline and presentation of Greene ’ s army stood in stark contrast to the chaos at Cambridge . Greene was fortunate to be supported by stellar officers , including James Varnum , who shared his vision . Greene and his officers toured their encampment with regularity , ensuring that their high standards were maintained . Everything , including the setup of their encampments , was to be clean and orderly . Personnel were required to maintain personal hygiene and to keep their uniforms clean and serviceable . Greene ’ s army religiously conducted maintenance and cleaning of their weapons and equipment and were subject to routine inspections . This was undoubtedly a breath of fresh air to George Washington , who , upon arriving at Cambridge , described the New England militiamen as “ an exceedingly dirty and nasty people .” 24
Greene understood that if his troops were to be disciplined , he needed to be a leader who exhibited discipline , inspired , and commanded respect . He seemingly never spared himself , working diligently and tirelessly on his personal affairs while ensuring that his presence was known and felt among the troops . Although Greene was one of the most inexperienced general officers , his self-discipline and the discipline of his troops earned him accolades and praise from his contemporaries and senior officers alike .
This was especially true in his relationship with George Washington , who eventually considered Greene his favorite officer , and whom many presume was Washington ’ s heir apparent . Washington understood Greene ’ s value and used him to his strengths . He knew that if something needed to be fixed and the need was urgent , more often than not , Greene was the man for the job . Unfortunately for Greene , sometimes this meant his assignments removed him from the battlefield , such as his appointment to the position of Quartermaster General .
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