HMS Alligator captured
March 19, 1782 off the coast of Charlestown, South Carolina

Americans Commanded by Maj. Michael Rudolph Forces Killed Wounded Captured - - - - British Commanded by ?? Forces Killed Wounded Captured 43 4 - 29 *Killed or Wounded Conclusion: American Victory

On March 19, as the Patriot forces surrounded Charlestown, the British stationed the armed galley HMS Alligator in the Ashley River. This was to prevent any movement towards the city by the Patriots. Maj. Michael Rudolph was put in charge of planning and conducting the raid on the Alligator.
Rudolph concealed a group of men under some vegetables in a boat and rowed for the Charlestown Market. He was dressed as a farmer and 4 of his men were dressed as slaves. At 10:00 P.M., a sentry aboard the Alligator hailed Rudolph and told him to pull alongside. When he was within 60 yards of the ship, the sentry challenged him. As Rudolph's boat struck the side of the Alligator, the hidden men sprang into action. They killed the sentry and 4 other sailors. The Patriots quickly shut the hatches and captured the captain and 28 of the crew. The remainder of the crew jumped overboard and swam for shore.
Rudolph took what stores he wanted and then burned the Alligator.