On what date did LT John Paul Jones first hoist the American flag on a ship?

LT John Paul Jones first hoisted the American flag on a ship on December 3, 1775. This date marks a significant moment in naval history as it symbolizes the establishment of the fledgling American Navy and the assertion of independence from British authority. At the time, the Continental Congress had authorized the creation of a Navy to defend the colonies, and Jones was one of the first officers to command a ship under the American flag. The actions taken on this date highlight the early steps toward a national identity and the commitment to maritime defense, setting the stage for the naval battles that would arise during the American Revolution. The other dates listed do not coincide with this historic naval event, placing December 3, 1775, as the standout moment in the context of the American Navy's early history.