In memory, Memorial Day 2011

With Memorial Day upon us, let us not forget those that have fallen in defense of our country. While we enjoy the numerous cookouts and jump in the swimming pool for the first time this summer, let us remember that a families father or mother; son or daughter; brother or sister paid the ultimate sacrifice for us to enjoy these freedoms whether it be those that gave us freedom in the Revolution or those who are serving overseas today, let us remember their sacrifices. The following is a poem that I came across today.

In Loving Memory

By Joanna Fuchs

On every soldier’s tombstone
should be a message of honor, respect and love:
"In loving memory
of one who loved his country,
who fought against evil
to preserve what is right and true and good.
In loving memory
of one who is a cut above the rest of us,
who had the surpassing courage,
the uncommon strength,
to do whatever had to be done,
persevering through hardship and pain.
In loving memory
of one who was brave enough
to give his life, his all,
so that those he cared about
would remain safe and free.
In loving memory
of a unique and treasured soldier
who will never be forgotten."

Private George Detrick, 23rd Ohio, KIA Battle of South Mountain
Buried at Antietam National Cemetery

I also encouraged those to visit the graves of these brave and fallen men and women at national cemeteries across the country. I will end with links to the casualties lists of those regiments and brigades that I have posted to this blog in honor of those men, blue and gray, that gave their last full measure of devotion. We must never forget.

23rd Ohio Volunteer Infantry

50th Georgia Volunteer Infantry

North Carolina's Fallen

96th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry

Pennsylvania Reserves

John Gibbon's Iron Brigade

Thomas F. Drayton's Confederate Brigade

Robert E. Rodes Fallen Alabamians