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05 May 1778. Valley Forge. Congress approved George Washington’s recommendation that Baron von Steuben become Inspector General of the Continental Army with a rank of major general. On that day, the army was celebrating the news that the United States had entered into an alliance with France. Steuben choreographed a Grand Review to celebrate the military partnership. Washington kept the news to himself until after, when he and his generals had a round of toasts to the King of France. Steuben’s French aide, Pierre Duponceau, was lavished upon as one of their new allies. Washington sprung the news of Steuben’s new appointment on his “dear Baron.” It was a great day for the Cause, the army and for Steuben. Steuben’s Blue Book manual “Regulations for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of the United States” was used as a guide for the US military until after the War of 1812. Some portions of the original Blue Book are still used by the American Armed Forces today.