January 19, 2007

Son of the South Birthday

On this date in 1807, Robert Edward Lee was born.

Now, as a former Civil War reenactor, I've learned a lot about this man's character and sense of duty. He attended West Point, fought in the Mexican American War, was Superintendent of West Point...and of course there was his service to the Confederacy.

Although I'm a Yankee born and bred, I've said before that for me to take sides in a fight like that of the Civil War (or War of Northern Aggression) would be wrong, and as I have learned so much about this man, I can only say I have a lot of respect for him.

He resigned from the US Army because he didn't want to take up arms against his beloved Virginia. I can respect that.

And he had some major health problems, and I've heard wasn't feeling too pert at Gettysburg. Boy, can I feel that pain!

But, as for the whole reenacting thing, I once escorted "General Lee" through Union camp. (It was a small event.) Everyone told me I should have used my feminine charms on him and kidnapped him.

Yeah, right, with his aides all around? Sure. And my charms aren't that beguiling!

(And I think Robert Duvall did a much better job than Martin Sheen!)

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