 and they began to attack. They startled the Hessians, unleashing a barrage of cannon fire. As the Hessians came out, patriots attacked them with bayonets. The Hessians tried to organize in advance and fight back, but it wasn't enough to stop the surging patriots. The Americans cut them off and took down their commander, Colonel Johann Rall. As Washington sensed triumph, the sounds of bullets regained their charm, and he exhorted his men, saying, and I quote, March on, my brave fellows, after me.