Memorial Day Gratitude

Memorial Day was originally designed to honor soldiers who served in the Civil War. This weekend, I'd like to take a moment to say something about the nearly 200,000 African American soldiers who served. Serving the country in the Kansas Colored Calvary, the Louisiana Native Guard, United States Colored Troops or the 54th Massachusetts Regiment, they honored the country.



Harriet Tubman served in the war, first as a nurse then as a scout. In July of 1863, Harriet Tubman led troops under the command of Colonel James Montgomery in the Combahee River expedition, disrupting Southern supply lines by destroying bridges and railroads. The mission also freed more than 750 slaves, transporting them. . . . Tubman came under Confederate fire on this mission. General Saxton, who reported the raid to Secretary of War Stanton, said "This is the only military command in American history wherein a woman, black or white, led the raid and under whose inspiration it was originated and conducted." Francis Dumas later became the first non-white officer.

Thanks to each and every soldier and person connected to a soldier this Memorial Day.

Day of the Teacher

Today is the Day of the Teacher. Let's all take a moment to recognize a teacher who impacted us. This year, I honor Mr. Bailey. He was my 7th and 8th grade English teacher who demystified the English language by teaching how to diagram sentences. This helped me become a much better writer and speaker. He was a dedicated, knowledgeable professional and the first African-American man I had seen teach. I wonder what he is doing and where he is now.