August 23, 2007

I AM JOE'S BREAKING HEART

I didn't even have to make it to the article body to feel a lump in my throat over this one (via LMT): Family Loses Second Son in Iraq War

And what came to mind was this:

Executive Mansion,
Washington, Nov. 21, 1864.

Dear Madam,--

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

Posted by Sarah at August 23, 2007 05:24 PM | TrackBack
Comments

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/news/worldnews.html?in_article_id=477259&in_page_id=1811

The British covered it as well with some moving photos. Very sad.

Posted by: Oda Mae at August 24, 2007 05:14 AM

Your post touched me and I wish the story of military casualties did not have to be replayed but I had to link this post to mine about another fallen member. Your letter from Lincoln reminds me that although there have been many others who have gone before, they are all unique and worthy of remembrance. Thank you for posting this.

Posted by: Lemon Stand at August 30, 2007 10:56 AM