It was a proof of the fine discipline of the American crew that when they saw two of their comrades killed by the fire of the enemy, they silently waited without murmur for the order whose delay they could not comprehend.
Not until about a hundred feet distant and in the exact position desired did Captain Hull give the order to fire as the guns bore.

To quote Maclay: "In an instant the frigate belched forth a storm of iron hail that carried death and destruction into the opposing ship.

The effect of this carefully aimed broadside at short range was terrific.

The splinters were seen to fly over the British frigate like a cloud, some of them reaching as high as the mizzen top, while the cheers of her men abruptly ceased and the shrieks and groans of the wounded were heard.
The Americans had struck their first earnest blow, and it was a staggering one.

The Englishman felt its full weight, and perhaps for the first time realized that this was no child's play." The Americans displayed remarkable skill in their gunnery, as it may be said they have always done.