[2] He commanded Massachusetts forces during the last stage of the Battle of Lexington and Concord in April 1775.

In August 1776 he was promoted to major general in the Continental Army, but Washington had doubts about Heath's abilities and posted him where no action was expected.

[2] General Heath was placed in charge of the Convention Army of John Burgoyne’s surrendered troops after the Battle of Saratoga.

[3][4][5] After the war, Heath was a member of the Massachusetts Convention that ratified the United States Constitution in 1788.

[2] He died at his home in Roxbury on January 24, 1814, and was buried nearby in Forest Hills Cemetery.