On a serious note, today I want to honor all the dogs who faithfully served during the Civil War. Linda visited Gettysburg today and took a picture of monument featuring Sallie, a brindle Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Sallie was the regimental mascot for the 11th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry. Joining the men at only four-weeks of age, Sallie grew up among the men of the regiment. She followed them on marches and to the battlefield. At the Battle of Gettysburg, the dog got separated from the unit. Unable to find her way, Sallie returned to the Union battle line at Oak Ridge, where she stood guard over the dead and wounded soldiers. She continued her faithful service through February, 1865, when she got shot in the head during the battle of Hatcher's Run, Virginia. She was buried on the field of battle. For her devotion to the men, Sallie is memorialized in this beautiful carving. Someday I hope to be able to serve my country in some way, even if it is nothing more then being a good watch dog and keeping my family safe.
