Description
“Don’t Give Up the Ship!” This dramatic rallying cry was reportedly the last utterance of Captain James Lawrence as he lay dying aboard the US frigate Chesapeake. Own this incredible piece of history today with your own Don't Give Up the Ship flag.
Our Commodore Perry flags are proudly made in the United States from nylon, a durable and weather-resistant material that flies regally, even in mild winds. The white text is digitally printed with precision against a dark navy blue background with UV-resistant ink, helping prevent fading due to sun exposure.
Each flag comes finished with a sturdy white canvas header with two brass grommets for simple mounting on any standard outdoor flagpole. The Don’t Give Up the Ship flag measures 3’ by 5’, which is an excellent fit for our best-selling house-mounted flagpole.
Don’t Give Up the Ship Flag Features
- Made in the USA
- Measures 3' x 5'
- Authentic 1813 design
- 100% premium nylon
- Strong canvas heading
- Rust-resistant brass grommets
Don’t Give Up the Ship Flag Meaning & History
Two hundred years ago, the United States Navy was still young and had yet to prove itself to the world. Remarkable captains like James Lawrence, only 31 at the time of his most famous battle, helped bring glory and honor to the US Navy, cementing America’s reputation as one of the most powerful military forces in the world.
A year into the War of 1812, Captain Lawrence’s ship, the US Chesapeake, fought the British frigate Shannon, which was blockading the Boston port. After only 15 minutes of fighting, 228 men were killed or wounded. Lawrence himself was shot early into the battle before uttering the line, “Don’t give up the ship!” Despite his crew’s efforts, the British ultimately captured the ship.
Captain Lawrence died from his wounds 3 days later. After learning of his death, his close friend Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry commissioned a battle ensign bearing Lawrence’s final order. Commodore Perry then flew this ensign from his flagship when he triumphed against the British during an engagement on Lake Erie, honoring his friend’s memory.
