THE SONS FOLLOW THE FATHERS
The twenty-third Annual Encampment of the Commandery-in-Chief of the Sons of Veterans, U. S. A., was in session at Boston, August 17 to 19, 1904.
At their closing session, E. R. Campbell, of Washington, D. C., Past Commander-in-Chief, acting under unanimous consent, brought the above tribute from the Veterans to the attention of the Sons of Veterans.
In a graceful speech he referred to this beautiful testimonial from the Grand Army of the Republic to the memory of a gallant opponent; asserted that the sons should follow in the footsteps of the fathers in all things attesting the spirit of a reunited nation; that it was the pleasure of the sons on their own account and in the light of history to testify to their enthusiastic appreciation of the valorous deeds of General Longstreet on the battle-field, and his equally commendable services to his country when the war was over; and asked that the matter be referred for further official action and endorsement to the incoming commander-in-chief, General William G. Dustin, of Dwight, Illinois.
The sentiment was applauded, the action asked was granted, and the tokens of individual approval and appreciation are continuing to gladden my heart as I write these closing words of grateful thanks to the fathers, the sons, and all who have so generously united in appreciation of the name and fame of General Longstreet.