LTC Harold Knudsen (Retired) explained how Confederate General Longstreet’s legacy became the victim of the post war movement in the South known as the Lost Cause; how he was punished for becoming a supporter of certain Reconstruction bills, the 13th and 14th Amendments, and accepting postings with the Republican Grant Administration.
Inspite of this reputation, Knudsen went on to explain and detail how Longstreet’s defensive tactics showed a clear evolution during Antietam, culminating at Fredericksburg with World War I lethality. His offensive tactics at Chickamauga were similar, if not the forerunner to World War II tactical level German armored tactics. Other areas show progressive applications with artillery, staff work, force projection, organizational structure, and operational level thinking. Knudsen showed how Longstreet was a modern thinker unparalleled in the Confederate Army.
June Book Raffle Winners
Prior to his presentation, the monthly book drawing for preservation was held, followed by the annual preservation drawing. Thank you to all who contribution materials and who purchased tickets. The winners are pictured below. But as always, the real winners are those lands that are preserved through these funds.
Annual Print Raffle Winners