Major Benjamin Tallmadge was an officer in the 2nd Continental Light Dragoons. Quickly promoted through the ranks, Tallmadge eventually came to the attention of General George Washington. With the death of Tallmadge's best friend and colonial spy Nathan Hale, Washington required a new source of intelligence and made Tallmadge the American intelligence division or "secret service." Recruiting friends from his childhood home town as well as trusted patriot sympathizers, Tallmadge created the first American Spy Ring. Operating out of New York, the "Culper Ring" supplied intelligence to the continental army for years right under British rule. As a result of this unique position, Tallmadge had his own detachment of dragoons to assist in his intelligence operations.