In acknowledgement of the sad events of
April 6 - 9, 1865. After the Army of Northern Virginia, General Robert Edward
Lee commanding, departed the Petersburg and Richmond defenses, they tried
to maneuver to join General Joseph Johnston’s army in North Carolina and
continue the fight. However, the Army of the Potomac commanded by General U.S.
Grant continued to restrict Lee’s movements and eventually on April 6 cut off
about 1/4 of his Army at Sayler’s Creek, Virginia and captured them. The
remains of the gallant Army of Northern Virginia attempted to break out of the
confinement but they were unsuccessful. Starving, outnumbered, worn out and
with few supplies General Lee exchanged notes with General Grant which led to
their meeting at the McLean house at Appomattox Courthouse, Virginia on April
9, 1865. General Lee was heard to say that he would rather die a thousand
deaths than to face Grant and ask for terms. However, as he did all his life,
he did his duty. This time it was to avoid the further loss of life in the
nearly hopeless situation his Army was in.
Read this narrative of the events mentioned above and think of how it hurt our
beloved General Lee to cease fighting for the liberty of the Confederate States
of America. It is well written and very factual.
Here
is the Farewell to the Army of Northern Virginia from General Robert E. Lee,
Commanding. Notice he said the Army was “compelled to yield…” He did not
say surrender.
God
bless the South and God bless Robert E. Lee.
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