Recommendations

[L Verge]

I would like to recommend that our members show support for a bill now in Congress to recognize an American Civil War icon with the Congressional Gold Medal for his long support of advancing interest in American history, especially in the Civil War field. I don't know how many of you have ever had the opportunity to be with Ed Bearss, retired Chief Historian Emeritis of the National Park Service and scholar extraordinaire, for one of his lectures or a battlefield tour, but he is truly a legend. And, at 92 years of age, he still remains very active in giving tours, etc.

The Civil War Trust has nominated Ed for the above award, and it has been introduced as a bill in the House of Representatives. They are seeking citizen support, so if you go to http://www.civilwar.org/take-action/speak-out/
you can lend your support by just giving name, address, and contact info. You will also see background information on this man (who nearly died as a special ops Marine during WWII and the battles in the Pacific). I have known Ed personally for about 25 years, and I can assure you that he is more than worthy of this recognition.

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Another recommendation is to try and find a copy of the current issue of Hallowed Ground, the magazine of the Civil War Trust. There is an outstanding article in this issue entitled "Stalking John Wilkes Booth" that covers the assassination and the escape route. The article was written by Surratt Society member and Booth Tour narrator Bob Allen. It is complemented by wonderful photos taken by a private photographer who works with the Trust.

This magazine generally only goes to members of the Civil War Trust, I believe, but I hope you are able to find a copy somehow.