Today we commemorate the Battle of Bunker Hill, twhich took place on this day in 1775 during the Seige of Boston early in the American Revolutionary War. Although the British won the battle, it was a Pyrrhic victory, as the gains were small while their troop losses were high. The colonial forces were able to retreat and regroup, while demonstrating their ability to stand up to the more experienced and well-armed British army.
The obelisk and statue of Colonel William Prescott keeping his colonial troops in order stand as a reminder of their efforts to free our country and of the many roles Boston played in the founding of the nation. The National Parks Service operates a museum on the site, and the city of Charlestown holds an annual parade, which has been cancelled this year.