When the American War of Independence began, the new British colonies of East and West Florida did not seek separation from England, and East Florida remained comparatively free from serious fighting throughout the Revolutionary War. In the summer of 1777, Americans launched an invasion aimed at capturing St. Augustine, using Continental Army troops and Georgia militia under Lt. Col. Samuel Elbert. East Florida's defense included the East Florida Rangers, British Regulars, and Indian allies. On May 17, 1777, part of the invading American force was attacked on Thomas Creek, south of its confluence with the Nassau River, by British Regulars under Maj. J.M. Prevost, assisted by Rangers under Col. Thomas Brown and Indians. After suffering heavy casualties, the Americans, already discouraged by lack of supplies and the heat, began their retreat from Florida, and only one more unsuccessful invasion of East Florida occurred during the remaining years of the American Revolution.