WAPPINGERS FALLS – Congressman Pat Ryan introduced the Chief Nimham Purple Heart Act, legislation allowing Chief Daniel Nimham – the last sachem of the Wappinger people and Revolutionary War hero – to be posthumously awarded the Purple Heart.
Chief Nimham fought alongside the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. He and members of his community aligned themselves with the cause of American independence, demonstrating extraordinary courage and commitment at a pivotal moment in our nation’s founding. On August 31, 1778, Chief Nimham and many of his men, including his son, were killed in the Battle of Kingsbridge, in present-day New York, while engaging British forces.
Despite his service and sacrifice, Chief Nimham was never formally recognized with the honors awarded to others who fought and died in the Revolutionary War. Congressman Ryan’s bill posthumously awards Chief Nimham with the military’s highest honor: the Purple Heart.
“I’ve been fighting alongside our Wappingers community, especially Fishkill Supervisor Ozzy Albra, to ensure that Chief Nimham receives the long-overdue recognition he deserves for his sacrifice to our country,” Congressman Ryan said. “The Purple Heart is our military’s highest honor—and while this recognition is centuries overdue, it would help honor Chief Nimham’s extraordinary service, courage, and ultimate sacrifice, while ensuring that future generations understand the indispensable role Native Americans played in securing our nation’s freedom.”
The Purple Heart, originally established by General George Washington in 1782 to honor those wounded or killed in combat, stands as one of our nation’s most revered military decorations
“Chief Daniel Nimham, who was also a Captain in the Continental Army, is a true unsung hero of the American Revolutionary War,” said Fishkill Supervisor Ozzy Albra. “History shows that General George Washington greatly respected and considered this man a friend not only to himself but to the cause of Independence the Patriots were fighting for. The Chief made the ultimate sacrifice of not only himself but his son and his warriors to make sure General Washington evaded capture by British troops. His actions make him deserving of the honor that is to be bestowed upon him.”
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