General Thomas Johnathan "Stonewall" Jackson

I would be most bereft of my duties as a grateful son of a Confederate Veteran and a son of the South if I did not at least mention that today is the birthday of General Thomas J. Jackson, forever remembered as Stonewall Jackson.

I have come to consider General Jackson as a personal hero, a man who exibited a most zealous Christian faith, who trusted completely the God who he knew governed all of existence, who loved his wife and family dearly, who modeled Christian piety and manhood, a man who loved to pray, and a man who took his duties seriously and left the consequences to God. This is the man for whom I celebrate this day, his birthday, and honor all that which he stood for.

Quotes from Gen Jackson

Once you get them running, you stay right on top of them, and that way a small force can defeat a large one every time... Only thus can a weaker country cope with a stronger; it must make up in activity what it lacks in strength.

Who could not conquer with such troops as these?

My troops may fail to take a position, but are never driven from one!

Stonewall Jackson as a Young Man (from VMI Military Institute)

Then, Sir, we will give them the bayonet! (Stonewall Jackson's reply to Colonel B.E. Bee when he reported that the enemy were beating them back. At the first battle of Bull Run, July 1861)

"Captain, my religious belief teaches me to feel as safe in battle as in bed. God has fixed the time for my death. I do not concern myself about that, but to be always ready, no matter when it may overtake me." He added, after a pause, looking me full in the face: "That is the way all men should live, and then all would be equally brave"

You may be whatever you resolve to be (From Jackson's Personal Journal)

In my tent last night, after a fatiguing day's service, I remembered that I failed to send a contribution for our colored Sunday school. Enclosed you will find a check for that object, which please acknowledge at your earliest convenience and oblige yours faithfully. (Lt. General Thomas Jackson, in a letter to his Pastor)

Our God was my shield. His protecting care is an additional cause for gratitude

I see from the number of physicians that you think my condition dangerous, but I thank God, if it is His will, that I am ready to go. (General Jackson on his Death Bed)

Let us cross over the river, and rest under the shade of the trees . . .
(The General's Last Words)