This Pine Tree banner was flown by the American Navy at its birth. This was the flag they raised as the first American War vessels were deployed against the British in Boston Bay. The Pine Tree had become a strong yet simple symbol of New England and the Colonies, and was well liked by Colonials, including General Washington. The words “An Appeal to Heaven” are in reference to a resolution by the Provincial Congress of Massachusetts, which states “Appealing to Heaven for the justice of our cause, we determine to die or be free.”