Honoring a Defining Naval Victory
The Battle of the Virginia Capes ceremony is dedicated to preserving the memory of a pivotal moment in American and French naval history. Through a formal public program, the event brings together guests, historians, civic leaders, and community partners to reflect on the legacy of the 1781 engagement and its enduring significance.
The celebration at Fort Story on Saturday September 5th, 2026, will celebrate three historically intertwined events:
The 245th anniversary of the Battle of the Capes/Chesapeake.
The 400th Anniversary of the French Navy.
The 50th Anniversary of the unveiling of the Comte de Grasse statue.
Our Purpose
A Ceremony Rooted in History
This ceremony was created to offer a clear, dignified way for visitors and attendees to engage with the story of the Battle of the Virginia Capes. It serves as an official source for event information while also providing historical context that deepens public understanding of the campaign’s importance.
By combining commemoration, education, and public participation, the event honors those who shaped the outcome of the Revolutionary War and invites a new generation to connect with the people, places, and decisions that influenced the nation’s founding.
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“The ceremony offers a meaningful way to connect the public with a turning point in history through remembrance, scholarship, and civic reflection.”
Planning Committee Statement
Official event perspective
Battle of the Virginia Capes ceremony