Memorial Day
Saturday, May 24th, 2008Memorial Day
(Written 1909)
It is said that the observance of this day grew originally out of the custom of the widows, mothers, and children of the Confederate dead in the South strewing the soldiers’ graves with flowers, including the unmarked graves of the Union soldiers. There was no settled date for this in the North until 1868, when General John A. Logan, as commander-in-chief of the Grand Army of the Republic, designated May 30. It is now generally observed, and is a legal holiday in most of the States.
THE BOY IN GRAY
| Fredericksburg had had her fray, And the armies stood at bay; Back of wall, and top of hill, Union men and men in gray Glowered at each other still.In the space between the two Many a hapless boy in blue Lay face upward to the skies; Many another, just as true, Filled the air with frantic cries.”Love of God!” with pity stirred, Cried a rebel lad who heard. “This is more than I can bear! General, only say the word, They shall have some water there.”"What’s the use?” his general, Frowning, asked. “A Yankee ball Drops you dead, or worse, half way, Once you go beyond the wall.” “May be!” said the boy in gray.”Still I’ll risk it, if you please.” And the senior, ill at ease, Nodded, growling under breath, “For his mortal enemies I have sent the lad to death.” Then a hotter fire began Parched lips hailed him as he came; Suddenly, through rain of those |
“BUT BESIDE EACH WOUNDED MAN
HEEDLESS KNELT THE BOY IN GRAY”
| Foes they were, of bitter need, Still to every noble deed Hearts of men, thank God, must thrill; And we thrill, too, as we read Of those cheers on Marye’s Hill.Days of battle long since done, Days of peace and blessing won, Better is it to forget Cruel work of sword and gun: But some deeds are treasures yet.While a grateful nation showers Graves of heroes with her flowers, Here’s a wreath for one to-day: North or South, we claim him ours— Honor to the Boy in Gray! |
