September 10

1813 – The United States defeats the British Fleet at the Battle of Lake Erie, sometimes called the Battle of Put-in-Bay, during the War of 1812.

Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry

Dear General:

We have met the enemy and they are ours. Two ships, two brigs, one schooner and one sloop.

Yours with great respect and esteem,
O.H. Perry

and
 
Brig Niagara, off the Western Sister,
Head of Lake Erie September 10, 4 P. M.
 
Sir:- It has pleased the Almighty to give to the arms of the United States a signal victory over their enemies on this lake. The British squadron, consisting of two ships, two brigs, one schooner and one sloop, have this moment surrendered to the force under my command after a sharp conflict.

I have the honor to be, Sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

O. H. Perry

I've lost a few battles at Put-In-Bay, but that is another discussion for another time.