Hercules, at the age of 16, enlisted in the U.S. Army in December 1812 along with his father (44) and two younger brothers, Moses (14) and Jeremiah, Jr.(12). All completed their 5 year enlistments except for Jeremiah, Sr. who died from combat wounds on 30 December 1813--the Battle of Black Rock. Hercules was present. With his brothers, Hercules was transferred to the 1st Regiment of Rifles which was composed of sharpshooters who were taught to fight as rangers. It was the first designated Special Operations unit in the U.S. Army.