Operation AXIOM
Here's wishing one & all a solemn & mindful Memorial Day. This is not the day we thank all those who bore arms for the republic—that's Veterans' Day; this is not the day we thank all those who currently bear arms for the republic—that's Armed Forces Day. To-day is the day we honor & thank all those who bore arms for the republic & made the ultimate sacrifice, those who gave the last full measure of devotion, those who never returned to home & hearth. To-day we memorialize the glorious dead, without whom none of us living would be able to enjoy the fruits of liberty. 'Tis Memorial Day.

The Rebel Black Dot Song of Memorial Day
Paul Roebling, Jay Unger, & David McCullough, "Ashokan Farewell/Sullivan Ballou Letter" from The Civil War: Original Soundtrack Recording

Commentary: An excerpt from Major Sullivan Ballou's letter to his wife, & soon-to-be widow Sarah. The letter is an object at staggering beauty & humbling depth of emotion.

"I have no misgivings about or lack of confidence in the cause I am not engaged, and my courage does not halt or falter. I know how American civilization now leans upon the triumph of the Government, and how great a debt we owe to those who went before us through the blood and suffering of the Revolution, and I am willing, perfectly willing to lay down all my joys in this life to help maintain this Government and to pay that debt."