Warren was appointed a Major General by the Provincial Congress on June 14, 1775. His commission had not yet taken effect before the Battle of Bunker Hill was fought. He served as a volunteer private against the wishes of General Israel Putnam and Colonel William Prescott, who requested that he serve as their commander. Taunting the British, Warren reportedly declared: “These fellows say we won’t fight! By Heaven, I hope I shall die up to my knees in blood!” He fought in the redoubt, remaining until the British made their third and final assault on the hill. Warren was killed instantly by a musket ball by a British officer who recognized him.

General Gage is said to have called Warren’s death of equal value to the death of 500 men.

Joseph Warren is survived by his fiance, Mercy Scollay, and five children from his marriage to Elizabeth Hooton, who predeceased Warren in 1773.

Burial services for this TRUE PATRIOT at Forest Hills Cemetry today at 11 o’clock.