STORIES OF REVOLUTIONARY WAR SOLDIERS
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John Paulding
"John Paulding was born in the State of New York in 1732. He was a brave soldier and rose from the ranks so the grade of major after he aided in the capture of Major Andre. For that noble act the names of Paulding, Williams and Van Wert are embalmed in the affections of every patriot whilst the name of the traitor Arnold rouses a manly indignation in the bosom of every man who loves his country. His portrait will darken as time rolls on. For this important capture Congress passed a highly complimentary resolution on the 3d of November 1780 and made the following order which was placed upon the records. " That each of them receive annually, out of the public treasury, two hundred dollars in specie or an equivalent in the current money of these States, during life and that the Board of War procure for each of them a silver medal, on one side of which shall be a shield with this inscription: "Fidelity" and on the other the following motto: "Vincit amor patriae " [the love of our country prevails] and forward them to the commander-in-chief, who is requested to present the same, with a copy of this resolution and the thanks of Congress for their fidelity and the eminent service they have rendered their country." Major Paulding died at Staatsburgh, Duchess County, New York on December 30, 1819. "
Source: The Sages and Heroes of the American Revolution by L. Carroll Judson