Happy 247th Birthday this month to Commodore Stephen Decatur, one of America’s greatest naval heroes. Decatur’s bold leadership during the Barbary Wars and the War of 1812 helped define the courage and spirit of the early U.S. Navy. Though his life was tragically cut short at just 41, his national stature and leadership left a lasting mark on American history. The White House Historical Association is deeply connected to Stephen Decatur. We are proud to be headquartered at Decatur House, the 181