The pension applications presented in this unique book are original source material and are interesting to read because the men tell their own stories. James F. Morrison has collected information on the Revolutionary War patriots for decades and sorted out the confusion in the depositions by adding end notes to the pension applications. Many of the men were very young and inexperienced but they hung on like bulldogs and did as they were told; 'hold fast or die with the holt'. In the pension applications you will find horror, humor, and unchanging human nature. Two stories are a must read. First, the story of Thomas Machin Junior's attempt to defraud the government and collect money by changing the death date of his mother. His father, Thomas Machin, Sr. worked on the chaining of the Hudson. Second, the other must read story is about Captain John Winn and the soldier in his command who he killed out of frustration. One thing is certain; you will be treated to a whole new view of the Revolutionary War from the perspective of the service men.