The infantry regiments were divided into three brigade-sized formations: Bourbonnois, Soissonois, and D’Agenois. In the narrative of Yorktown, their experience is largely forgotten. Learn more about them by driving around the loop.
The French contribution to victory at Yorktown was immense. The victory would have been impossible if not for the French navy’s ability to neutralize Britain’s naval power and rapidly transport part of the Allied army to Virginia. Washington was aware of this, writing on 16 July 1780 to the Comte de Rochambeau,
"I hasten to impart to you the happiness I feel at the welcome news of your arrival; and as well in the name of the American army as my own name to present you with an assurance of our warmest sentiments for allies who have so generously come to our aid. As a citizen of the United States and as soldier in the cause of liberty, I thankfully acknowledge this new mark of friendship from His Most Christian Majesty . . ."
Washington, George., Fitzpatrick, John Clement., Matteson, David Maydole. The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources, 1745-1799 (United States: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1931), 185.