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Historic Document
LEE'S FAREWELL To His ARMY April 10, 1865
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The surrender had been signed
at Appomattox the day before.
In a war that had had its share
of both heroes and fickle leadership, in which the toll of death and
suffering exceeded anything endured by Americans before or since,
Confederate General Robert E. Lee stands out for his ability to
consistently persevere against heavy odds, for his unshakeable faith
in God and in the Southern cause, and for the undying loyalty of his
troops in the face of terrible losses.
In his short farewell address to his hard-fought
Army, one can sense Lee's reputation as the ultimate southern
gentleman, as well as to begin to understand why his men would so
willingly follow him into the teeth of hell.
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LEE'S FAREWELL To His ARMY April 10, 1865
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April 10, 1865
After four years of arduous service, marked
by unsurpassed courage and fortitude, the Army of Northern Virginia has been
compelled to yield to overwhelming numbers and resources.
I need not tell the survivors of so many
hard-fought battles, who have remained steadfast to the last, that I have
consented to this result from no distrust of them; but, feeling that valour and
devotion could accomplish nothing that could compensate for the loss that would
have attended the continuation of the contest, I have determined to avoid the
useless sacrifice of those whose past services have endeared them to their
countrymen.
By the terms of the agreement, officers and
men can return to their homes and remain there until exchanged. You will take
with you the satisfaction that proceeds from the consciousness of duty
faithfully performed; and I earnestly pray that a merciful God will extend to
you His blessing and protection.
With an increasing admiration of your
constancy and devotion to your country, and a grateful remembrance of your kind
and generous consideration of myself, I bid you an affectionate farewell.
R. E. Lee, General
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