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PA SR242
Resolution
Status
3/11/2026
Primary Sponsor
Jarrett Coleman
Click for details
AI Summary
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Five Pennsylvania volunteer militia units totaling 476 officers and men became the first troops to reach Washington, DC on April 18, 1861, responding to President Lincoln's call for 75,000 militia after Fort Sumter
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Units included the Allen Infantry (Allentown), Logan Guards (Lewistown), Washington Artillerists and National Light Infantry (Pottsville), and Ringgold Light Artillery (Reading)
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Nicholas Biddle of the Washington Artillerists was injured when Southern sympathizers attacked the column in Baltimore, believed by historians to be the first uniformed casualty of the Civil War
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The Pennsylvania General Assembly authorized commemorative medals for surviving First Defenders in 1891
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Resolution encourages recognition of April 18 each year as "First Defenders Day" through ceremonies, educational programs, and community activities
Legislative Description
Honoring and commemorating the Pennsylvania First Defenders for their historic service, valor and sacrifice in defense of the national capital at the outset of the Civil War.
Last Action
Referred to Rules & Executive Nominations
3/11/2026