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People my age and older often talk about their "bucket lists." You know, that list of things they wish to accomplish or obtain before life's last call.
Recently my husband and I accomplished a common wish list item when we drove to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania to take in the historic sites and learn more about the Battle of Gettysburg.
It's one thing to read about the Civil War and that famed battle in Gettysburg.
It's a whole lot more meaningful and memorable to stand on the same grounds where so many human lives were lost.
The Battle of Gettysburg occurred over three days, from July 1-3, 1863.
The Confederates, led by the South's General Robert E. Lee, and the Union Army with the North's Gen. George Meade at the helm, would see more than 51,000 troops die amid the vast fields, steep ridges and stands of forest of Gettysburg. The Union won the battle and eventually the war.
Walking in the ghostly footsteps of those young and old men who died there is palpable. The monuments erected throughout the landscape ensure that those sacred grounds and the men who died there are never forgotten.
The Gettysburg Museum offers a true-to-life video that vividly recounts the battle. In addition to showing us just how brutal the war was, the video reminded viewers that abolishing slavery was only a part of the clash.
While I enjoyed history class during my school years, I learned a whole lot more about American history when viewing the video. I wish every high school-aged child in America could see that film.
They would learn that the Battle of Gettysburg was less about memorizing names and dates and more about true dedication to a belief worth the fight.
Even many days later, the whole experience at Gettysburg has remained with me. There was something unforgettable and moving about being there. It is hard to explain. I recommend putting a visit to Gettysburg on your own bucket list.
Are ghosts roaming the Gettysburg area? Some say yes, that the very young soldiers of this battle are still looking for their way home. I don't need to see these ghosts to know they are truly there.
NOTE: Be careful this Halloween weekend. You are bound to actually see a few ghosts at your front doors!
Heather Ziegler can be reached via email at hziegler@theintelligencer.net.