The hand-to-hand fighting was fierce near the Henry House during the Battle of First Manassas. Although the battle was a loss for the Union, there was no loss of honor for the Irish of the 69th New York State Militia. Their famous green flag, the "Prince of Wales" flag, fell as the standard-bearer was shot down, but it was soon raised again. The flag had been given to the 69th for its refusal to participate in a parade honoring England's Prince of Wales. Now they rallied 'round it, as Captain Thomas Meagher's battle cry rose above the din of battle, "Boys! Look at the flag-remember Ireland and Fontenoy."