The Washington Light Infantry (WLI), organized in 1807, is one
of the nation's oldest militia units. Anticipating a second war
with Britain, the citizens of Charleston planned for a number of
volunteer corps, one of which was the Washington Light Infantry.
It alone survives. The Corps was named in honor of George
Washington. Annually, on his birthday, February 22, a military
banquet is observed by the Corps. The famous Eutaw Flag (the
story of which follows) was borne by another Washington, Colonel
William Washington, a cousin of General George Washington. Since
1807, the Washington Light Infantry has participated as a unit
exhibiting honor and bravery in every major war this country has
fought. Beginning in 1812, during the War of 1812 between the
United States and Great Britain, and to 1814, the company was
mustered into active service. No military event occurred in this
section of the country and the infantry did not serve. In 1824,
the company was distinguished with the "Fusilier Francaise" or
as a specia