Today's Rhumb Lines discusses the Battle of New Orleans and the commemoration of the Bicentennial of the War of 1812. Beginning in New Orleans, the three-year commemoration highlights the Navy's role in keeping sea lanes free for more than 200 years.

1. A product of...
Navy Office of Information
www.navy.mil
April 16, 2012
Bicentennial of the War of 1812 – Battle of New Orleans and Commemoration Events
“The Battle of New Orleans was a historic victory in the War of 1812; it solidified the country’s claim to the Louisiana Purchase -- a
territory which effectively doubled the size of our nation. It is only fitting that we begin the bicentennial commemoration of the War of
1812 in New Orleans to honor the exceptional warfighters, history and traditions that emerged during this battle and laid the
foundation for today’s versatile naval force.”
– Rear Adm. Ann Claire Phillips, Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group Two
Beginning April 17, 2012, and continuing through 2015, the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and other
government and non-profit partners will commemorate the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 and The Star Spangled
Banner. New Orleans was chosen as the host city for the opening events marking the 200th anniversary. The three-year
commemoration will also end in New Orleans, where the last land battle of the war was fought and marked the last
time a foreign army set foot on American soil.
Nearly 200 Years Ago
 Dec. 14, 1814, U.S. Navy gunboats engaged British ships carrying an invasion force set on capturing New
Orleans.
 Dec. 23, 1814, U.S. Navy schooner Carolina and sloop Louisiana participated with American troops under the
command of Gen. Andrew Jackson in an attack on the advancing British.
 Sailors and Marines fought in Jackson’s lines outside of New Orleans and manned a battery on the western side
of the Mississippi River that flanked the British.
 Jan. 8, 1815, a frontal assault by the British against the American forces ended in disaster, saving the city.
The U.S. Navy: Then and Now
Throughout the Navy’s 236-year history, the force has been and continues to be comprised of highly trained and
motivated Sailors and civilians with diverse backgrounds.
 The commemoration of the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 is a salute to all Sailors and Marines who fought
gallantly in that conflict, who served in all of our nation’s conflicts since then and who are defending freedom
around the world today.
 The commemoration underscores the importance of the United States as a maritime nation dependent on a
strong Navy and fostering international good will. Our Navy is forward deployed around the globe always ready
to defend our national security while providing assistance to those in need.
 The performance of America’s Sailors and Marines in the War of 1812 set the standard upon which our naval
forces continue to build today.
Key Messages Facts & Figures
 Warfighting First: For 200 years, the Navy has had a  The three-year national celebration commemorating
honed and combat-tested officer corps of exceptional the War of 1812 and the Star-Spangled Banner will
warfighters. begin in New Orleans April 17 – 23, 2012.
 Operate Forward: In 1812, U.S. Navy frigates fought  Activities during the week will include: a colorful
the British from the coast of England to the spectacle of U.S. Navy vessels and tall ships from
southwestern tip of South America. Today, our Navy around the world on the East Bank of the Mississippi
maintains a global maritime presence, remaining at the River, ships open for public visiting, a Blue Angels air
front lines of our nation’s efforts in war and peace. show, official visits from regional dignitaries and Navy
 Be Ready: In 1812, innovative ship designers created leadership, a seafood cook-off and regional outreach
superior fighting ships crewed by Sailors who evened and community service projects.
the odds against the larger British fleet. Today, our  For more information about War of 1812, visit
warfighters are the most capable and flexible force in http://www.ourflagwasstillthere.org/
the world.