Robert E. Lee--an American hero

Date published: 1/19/2006

KENNESAW, Ga.--Is our nation's history being taught in public schools?

Do young people still hear stories about George Washington, Booker T. Washington, and Robert E. Lee?

There was a time when schools and businesses closed in respect for the birthday of one of the South's favorite sons--Robert E. Lee.

In the modern era, sadly, Lee's birthday is no longer included on many calendars. It is today, Jan. 19.

Lee--a man whose military tactics have been studied worldwide--was an American soldier, educator, Christian gentleman, husband, and father. Many include Lee as among the top 10 of the greatest Americans who ever lived.

Lee loved his country and supported the United States Constitution.

As a general, he said, "All the South has ever desired was that the Union, as established by our forefathers, should be preserved, and that the government, as originally organized, should be administered in purity and truth."

It has been said that "A land without memories is a people without liberty." With that in mind, a birthday tribute to Gen. Lee will be held in Atlanta today. It begins with a parade, and a memorial will be held inside the state capitol building.

This is the 18th year the Georgia Division Sons of Confederate Veterans has sponsored a memorial to Lee in Atlanta.

Let America not forget that Gen. Robert E. Lee was born in Stratford, Westmoreland County, Va., on Jan. 19, 1807. The winter was cold and fireplaces were little help for Lee's mother, Ann Hill (Carter) Lee, who suffered from a severe cold.

Ann Lee named her son "Robert Edward" after her two brothers.

Robert E. Lee's love of country undoubtedly came from his close association with those who had lived during the American Revolution. His father, "Light Horse" Harry Lee, was a Revolutionary War hero, governor of Virginia, and member of the United States House of Representatives.

Members of his family also signed the Declaration of Independence.

Lee was educated in schools in Alexandria. In 1825, he received an appointment to West Point Military Academy in New York. He graduated in 1829, second in his class and without a single demerit, a record that stands today.

He was commissioned as second lieutenant of the United States Engineer Corps. He served on engineering projects in Georgia, Virginia, and New York.

Date published: 1/19/2006