Legend also has it that in April 1863, in Columbus, Mississippi, after decorating graves of her two sons who died representing their beloved south-land, an elderly woman walked to two mounds of dirt at the corner of the cemetery to place memorial flowers there also. "What are you doing?" friends shouted, "Those are the graves of two Union soldiers." Softly that compassionate mother said, "I know. I also know that somewhere in the North, a mother or a young wife mourns for them as we do for ours."
Regardless of the origin of Memorial Day, it is a time of remembrance to honor the memory of those who sacrificed their lives on the altar of freedom.
I have had the privilege of touring the Gettysburg battlefield on two different occasions. The setting is picturesque and its beauty seems a vivid contrast to the egregious and deadly nature of war. The battle at Gettysburg is remembered as both the turning point in the Civil War and its most deadly battle.
Reportedly, it began as a small skirmish, but within the three days from start to finish, had escalated to include over 160,000 Americans. When it was all set and done, 51,000 Americans died in that one battle.
Thousands of Union soldiers were buried in unmarked graves. In ensuring months, a decision was made to dedicate the land for the establishment of a National Cemetery.
To make the dedication of the Gettysburg National Cemetery memorable, Edward Everett who was noted as one of the country's leading orators, was invited to speak. Everett had previously served as president of Harvard College. He was also a former U.S. senator and former secretary of state.
Initially, the dedication date for the Gettysburg National Cemetery was set for October 23, 1863. Everett subsequently requested more time to prepare his remarks and the date for the dedication was changed to November 19, 1863.
Perhaps almost as an afterthought, on November 2, President Lincoln was extended the invitation to "formally set apart these grounds to their sacred used by a few appropriate remarks".
Edward Everett's delivery was two hours in length. President Lincoln's remarks which were later referred to as The Gettysburg Address lasted only two minutes. Today it is remembered as one of the most important speeches in American history.
As a side note, the Civil War began in 1861 and last 4 years. During that time over 620,000 Americans were killed. Perhaps not much has changed. This was not the Taliban infiltrating our country and promoting destruction and bloodshed. This is a sad example of what the American people are capable of bringing on themselves.
All My Best!
Don