In the first year of the American War for Independence, the Continental Congress authorized the creation of a navy. A new flag was required representing the Congress and fledgling nation, and distinguishing from the Red Ensign flying from British vessels. The Continental Colors were first hoisted on the USS Alfred, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on December 2, 1775, by Lieutenant John Paul Jones. The event had been documented in letters to Congress. The Continental Colors were used by the American Continental forces as both naval ensign and garrison flag through 1776 and early 1777.