Memorial Day

I don't want this to be misinterpreted, because I have the utmost respect and gratitude for those who have served and made the ultimate sacrifice, but I can't help but think that we're damned lucky that nobody tough has attacked us recently.

I really don't think that today's Americans have the strength to withstand a full on war.

Then again, I should probably stop watching main stream media. The coverage feels more like the reporting of a tragedy than respectful remembrance of our fallen servicemen.

While I happen to disagree with Abe Lincoln on secession, this letter puts a lump in your throat.

I have been shown in the files of the War Department a statement of the Adjutant General of Massachusetts that you are the mother of five sons who have died gloriously on the field of battle.

I feel how weak and fruitless must be any word of mine which should attempt to beguile you from the grief of a loss so overwhelming. But I cannot refrain from tendering you the consolation that may be found in the thanks of the republic they died to save. I pray that our Heavenly Father may assuage the anguish of your bereavement, and leave you only the cherished memory of the loved and lost, and the solemn pride that must be yours to have laid so costly a sacrifice upon the altar of freedom.

Yours, very sincerely and respectfully,

A Lincoln.