Time. Remembrance. Honor.
“I know how strongly American Civilization now leans upon the triumph of the Government, and how great a debt we owe to those who went before us through the blood and suffering of the Revolution.” These words were penned by Major Sullivan Ballou, 2nd Rhode Island Volunteer Infantry, to his wife Sarah just days before he was mortally wounded. They remind us of the ultimate sacrifice so many have made for our freedom and liberty. Ballou had joined the new Republican Party when it was formed in the late 1850s, and through his affiliation with the Republican Party, Sullivan Ballou became acquainted with Governor Sprague of Rhode Island. Governor Sprague commissioned Ballou in the 2nd Rhode Island Regiment and on June 5, 1861, the regiment was mustered into service. In the battle at Matthews Hill, a 6-pound solid shot tore off Sullivan Ballou’s right leg and killed his horse, “Jennie.” Major Ballou was taken to the field hospital at Sudley Church and was left behind after field surgeons amputated his right leg. He later died on July 28 at the age of 32. When the Union troops returned to Manassas on a body-recovery mission, they found that the body of Major Sullivan Ballou had been desecrated by the 21st Georgia Regiment as history would write. “I have no misgivings about, or lack of confidence in, the cause in which I am engaged, and my courage does not halt or falter.” These words from Sullivan Ballou speak to the courage of those who have fought for the country.
Julius Caesar’s famous quote, “I love the name of honor, more than I fear death” is written in the hearts of many of our warriors as they go into battle. Honor is synonymous with the bravery and selflessness we have witnessed and seen recorded throughout history from those who have given all on the battlefields in the fight for our lives, our liberties, and our freedoms.
On this Memorial Day, 2021, know that those who take up the shield to protect us have no knowledge of how much time they will have, but we must let them know they will always be remembered and honored by “we the people” of these great United States. Today I wish you time, memories, and honor to stay in the fight. Our fight may not be on the battlefield, but we are nonetheless in the fight for the soul of our country — and must continue forward with the heart of a warrior.