An Ulsterman was the first to carry the American flag into battle.

On 3rd September 1777 the American flag (stars & stripes), which was approved by Congress on June 14th of that year, was carried into battle for the first time by a force under an Ulster-Scots commander, General William Maxwell. 

General William Maxwell  (centre) from Co. Tyrone

The brigadier general who was born in Co. Tyrone, Ulster and commanded the New Jersey brigade, ordered the stars and stripes banner raised as a detachment of his infantry and cavalry met an advance guard of British and Hessian troops at Cooch's Bridge, Delaware.

Battle of Cooch's Bridge