The importance of the American flag, celebrated on this holiday, shines through in the story of one Civil War regiment.
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Regiment re-enactors bow their heads in a prayer of remembrance for the 54th Massachusetts on Folly Beach, S.C., July 15, 2011.
Harriet McLeod/Reuters
William Carney heard a familiar voice roar, “Forward 54th!” Dashing up a steep slope with sand chafing his arms, legs, and neck, he saw a bullet-ridden flag flutter, beginning an agonizing plummet to the ground.
He must save the colors; he must save the colors. Throwing his rifle aside, he grabbed the Stars and Stripes before they landed on the gritty crest. Carney braced himself against the flag, ready to die, while rallying his friends to take Fort Wagner.
About the Author
Elliott Drago is the resident historian and manager of the History Initiative at the Jack Miller Center.
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William Carney heard a familiar voice roar, “Forward 54th!” Dashing up a steep slope with sand chafing his arms, legs, and neck, he saw a bullet-ridden flag flutter, beginning an agonizing plummet to the ground.
He must save the colors; he must save the colors. Throwing his rifle aside, he grabbed the Stars and Stripes before they landed on the gritty crest. Carney braced himself against the flag, ready to die, while rallying his friends to take Fort Wagner.
About the Author
Elliott Drago is the resident historian and manager of the History Initiative at the Jack Miller Center.
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