Military Executions

[NHjohn]

Why would there be an upbeat tune played after the execution? Seems odd to my 21st century mind...

I've not found a specific explanation, but in the various writings I've read, the execution ceremony was a way to send the message to the troops. Do not desert. Do not run. Do not commit murder, rape or this will happen to you. Then, over is over. Sentenced carried out. Back to your duties. A way of making that clear separation was a jaunty tune. When volunteer regiments went off to war, "The Girl I Left Behind Me," was THE standard tune played by the regimental band as the steamer or train pulled away from dock or depot.