Commemorating the life and legacy of William Woodford.
Summary
House Joint Resolution 683 is a commemorative resolution honoring William Woodford, a Virginia native and brigadier general in the Continental Army. The resolution recounts his military service in the French and Indian War and the American Revolution, including his leadership of the 2nd Virginia Regiment at the Battle of Great Bridge, his later service under George Washington in major engagements such as Brandywine, Germantown, and Monmouth, and his death after captivity following the fall of Charleston.
The resolution also notes Woodford’s lasting legacy in Virginia and beyond, including place names associated with him, and marks the 250th anniversary of his victory at Great Bridge. It directs the Clerk of the House of Delegates to present a copy of the resolution to the Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways History Foundation as a gesture of recognition and respect.
Impact
HJR 683 does not change state law, create new programs, or appropriate funds. Its effect is ceremonial: it formally commemorates William Woodford and recognizes his historical significance to Virginia and the nation. The only operational action required is the preparation and presentation of a copy of the resolution to the Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways History Foundation.
Sentiment
The sentiment around the resolution is strongly positive and commemorative. The bill passed both chambers without any recorded votes or committee controversy in the provided materials, and the text itself uses laudatory language emphasizing Woodford’s courage, sacrifice, and importance to the Revolutionary War and Virginia history.
Contention
No notable points of contention are reflected in the available record. Because the measure is a nonbinding memorial resolution honoring a Revolutionary War figure, there is no evidence of disagreement over policy, fiscal impact, or legal effect. The only named recipient of the resolution is the Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways History Foundation, underscoring its historical and ceremonial purpose.