William Prescott
William Prescott (20 February 1726 – 13 October 1795) was a Continental Army colonel during the American Revolutionary War.
When it was discovered that British troops were planning to take Dorchester Heights and Charlestown during the Siege of Boston, Prescott was chosen to lead the rebels onto the Charlestown peninsula and build fortifications at Bunker Hill on the night of 16 June 1775. When he arrived, he chose to build the fortifications at Breed's Hill instead.
Breed's Hill was closer to Boston than Bunker Hill, making it easier to fire artillery at the city. However, it was also easier for the British forces in Boston to fire back. It is possible that Prescott failed to notice the vulnerability of the position, since the fortifications were built in the dark of the night.
Although the rebels were eventually forced to retreat in the Battle of Bunker Hill the following day, the British lost many of their men, including officers. Thanks to Prescott, the rebel troops remained well-disciplined, proving their worth against the British Army.