Old Baldy(photo above taken in Culpeper, Virginia 1863) carried Gen. George G. Meade safely through 14 engagements and was wounded 14 times. He died of natural cause's in 1882 after being retired.
This monument of Major General George Gordon Meade on Old Baldy, stands on Cemetery Ridge, South of the town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania overlooking the fields he worked so hard to defend. On June 28th, just three days prior to Day 1 of the Battle of Gettysburg, General Meade was notified that he would now command the Army of the Potomac. Little did Baldy know but he was soon to became involved in the largest land battle fought on North American soil. By Day 3's end, despite about 21,000 casualties, the Army of the Potomac held their ground, with the Confederate Army retreating back towards the safety of Virginia soil. In an order issued June 30th, General Meade wrote:
Headquarters Army of the Potomac,
June 30, 1863.
The commanding general requests that previous to the engagement soon expected with the enemy, corps and all other commanding officers address their troops, explaining to them briefly the immense issues involved in the struggle. The enemy are on our soil. The whole country now looks anxiously to this army to deliver it from the presence of the foe. Our failure to do so will leave us no such welcome as the swelling of millions of hearts with pride and joy at our success would give to every soldier of this army. Homes, firesides, and domestic altars are involved. The army has fought well heretofore; it is believed that it will fight more desperately and bravely than over if is addressed in fitting terms. Corps and other commanders are authorized to order the instant death of any soldier who fails in his duty at this hour.
By command of Major-General Meade
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