Confederate History and Heritage Month

WHEREAS, April is the month in which the War Between the States began; and

WHEREAS, the history of this conflict is a significant part of Alabama history; and

WHEREAS, high among the burdens of any community is the burden of armed conflict; and

WHEREAS, Alabamians have admirably answered the grim call to duty when beckoned, from the era of the musket to that of the missile; and

WHEREAS, conflict gave birth to the Confederate States of America in the city of Montgomery; and

WHEREAS, Alabamians heeded the call to action with dignity, both at home and on the battlefield; and

WHEREAS, upon the conclusion of the war, many of these same leaders and citizens worked tirelessly to reunite and rebuild this country and forge reconciliation; and

WHEREAS, the knowledge of the role of the Confederate States of America in the history of our state and nation is vital to understanding who we are; and

WHEREAS, we honor our past and draw from it the courage, strength and wisdom to reconcile ourselves and go forward into the future together as Alabamians and Americans:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim the month of April 2013, as

Confederate History and Heritage Month

in the state of Alabama.

Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 17th day of April 2013.

                        

Governor Robert Bentley