Monroe, James (1758-1831) [Commendation for service]
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00496.069 Author/Creator: Monroe, James (1758-1831) Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph document Date: 20 April 1820 Pagination: 1 p. : docket ; 25 x 21 cm. Order a Copy
Describes a soldier's courage under fire and bravery in the face of the enemy. According to the Monroe Papers, these are remarks made by Monroe during the presentation of a sword to Richard M. Johnson for service during the War of 1812.
Sir
I now preform an office which is very gratifying to my feelings. In the late war, our country was assaild on every side; on the whole Atlantic coast, & inland frontier; and in many quarters at the same time. Honour'd by your fellow citizens, you then hold a Honor in the public councils, which afforded you an opportunity, to render services, with which a patriotism, less ardent, would have been satisfied. But you repaird to the field, at the head of a regiment of volunteers, & met the enemy, at one of the points, where he was most formidable. At the head of that corps, & well supported by it, you fought with heroick gallantry, & spiritually contributed, to the victory which was obtaind. Your country is grateful for these services, & in complyance, with a resolution of Congress, I present to you with this Sword, as a testimonial of its high regard.
[docket]
Commrs
April 20. 1820
[written in a contemporary hand: Sword Presentation?]
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