What gamble did Washington take to face the smallpox epidemic at Valley Forge?

At Valley Forge, George Washington took the significant gamble of implementing a smallpox inoculation program for his troops in early 1777. Recognizing the devastating impact of smallpox on his army, he ordered that soldiers be inoculated with the virus in a controlled manner, despite the risks involved. This decision aimed to create immunity among his troops, which would ultimately strengthen the army's resilience against the disease. Although it was a controversial and risky move, it proved effective in reducing the spread of smallpox and boosting troop morale.