Hello Folks

sgtcsa · #1 03-08-2005, 06:38 PM

I've just joined this fine organization, and I am introducing myself. I was born and raised in Va., and even though I've learned about both sides in the War for Southern Independence, my loyalties still lie with the Southern cause. As with my ancestors, slavery didn't mean much. They didn't own any slaves, didn't know much about them, and didn't care to. They fought for what they believed in, and slavery wasn't it. Why did these young men go through the trials that they did? To protect the aristocrocy and their slaves? No. General Lee didn't believe in slavery either, but he still went to war against the North. Why? Because he couldn't raise his hand against his native State, Va. Lee was no traiter to his country, far from it, and neither were the thousands that sacrificed their lives for the flag of the Confederacy, and, let me add, that very few, died carrying that flag supporting the slave holders or the hate groups of today. Shucks, they burn the U.S. flag, so why shouldn't they demean the Confederate flag? My ancestors were honorable men, they led lives not unlike any other individual of the day. They worked hard, raised families and were religious, which seems to be out of vogue these days. Okay, enough of that, I suppose I should regulate my soap box to another forum, so please excuse me and I will refrain from doing anything but trying to get to know the good people who frequent this board, and letting you know just who I am. I was raised in a little place called McLean, which is in Fairfax county. It is there I learned of the great 'unpleasantness'. I don't know if you'd call it ironic or not, but I too served in the military from '61 to '65..........1961-65, that is. My life has taken many turns and I now find myself living in the State of Washington. For over 25 years, I returned to Va to not only to visit my parents, but to scout out the various WBTS battlefields, throughout the state. My folks moved to Front Royal, Va, where I spent many a day going over the skirmishes and battles that took place there and around Northern Va. I am pleased to have found a place that seems to be just what I've been looking for, a place where there are many good people, no matter what side of the fense they're on, to communicate to and with, about the great conflict. I look forward to many good experiences with many of you.

larry_cockerham · #2 03-08-2005, 09:41 PM

You seem to have expressed my sentiments pretty well! I look forward to hearing and learning more from you. Maybe we can balance the blue on this group list. You'll quickly discover some very knowledgeable men and ladies about. None of 'em bashful, I might add.

unionblue · #3 03-08-2005, 10:53 PM

sgtcsa,

Welcome to the board and keep your powder dry, sgt, you will have need of it, because it is my belief that Lee did believe in slavery along with a few other ideas that are in conflict with your own posted above.

But I welcome the chance to debate and learn from you, sgt, and I expect the occassional poke in the eye, but I do wish to extend my hand in friendship and the sincere hope we will learn from one another and agree to disagree agreeably.

Sincerely,
Unionblue