The raid on Terschelling was a significant naval engagement led by Rear Admiral Robert Holmes, who commanded a squadron of ships that executed a surprise attack on the Dutch island. This operation took place amidst the Second Anglo-Dutch War, a conflict that emerged from competition over trade and naval supremacy. Holland's economic strength was primarily derived from its maritime commerce, making the destruction of merchant ships a strategic aim for the English navy. Holmes's raid not only involved the assault on merchant vessels but also highlighted the tactical use of fireships in naval warfare. These ships were set ablaze and directed towards enemy vessels, causing chaos and destruction.

On this day, the assault resulted in an estimated 150 Dutch merchant ships being set ablaze, earning the incident the moniker “Holmes's Bonfire.” The damage inflicted was not only a direct hit to Dutch merchant shipping but also a blow to Dutch morale. It exemplified the aggressive tactics Britain employed in the war. The success of the raid further solidified Holmes's reputation as a formidable naval commander and escalated tensions, contributing to the eventual outcomes of the Second Anglo-Dutch War.

The Terschelling raid demonstrated the effectiveness of naval strategy in disrupting enemy supply lines and showcased the importance of naval power in determining the outcomes of maritime conflicts. As Britain sought to bolster its influence over sea trade, significant engagements like this intensified the ongoing rivalry with the Dutch, setting the tone for future confrontations at sea.