J Keith Jones

Authors: Clifford L. Carter; Mark Fleisher; BeLinda Bynum Green; J. Keith Jones; Val Lotz; Regina d' Scriptura; Gary B. ZelinskiDedicationTo those whose paths have intertwined with ours, shaping our journeys in ways seen and unseen. This anthology is a testament to the intricate web of connections that bind us all, transforming our lives through shared moments, whispers of wisdom, and acts of kindness.May these stories remind us of the profound impact we have on one another, and the beauty of our collective human experience.Be kind.Ripples, An AnthologyIn the intricate tapestry of human existence, each thread is interwoven with countless others, creating patterns that are both beautiful and complex. This anthology delves into the profound and often unrecognized ways our actions, words, and even our mere presence can influence the lives of those around us.From a simple smile exchanged with a stranger to the thoughtful advice given to a friend, every interaction holds the potential to create ripples that extend far beyond the moment. Our daily lives are a series of encounters and decisions that shape not only our own experiences but also the experiences of others, often in ways we may never fully comprehend.Through a diverse collection of stories, essays, and reflections, this anthology explores the myriad ways in which our lives are interconnected. It highlights the power of kindness, the significance of empathy, and the impact of our choices on the world around us. Each piece serves as a reminder that, whether we are aware of it or not, we are constantly influencing the world and the people within it.As you journey through these pages, may you be inspired to recognize the subtle yet powerful ways you affect those around you and to embrace the responsibility and opportunity to create positive ripples in your everyday life.

The first infantry actions of the Gettysburg Campaign involved Georgia troops. Brigadier General John B. Gordon's brigade crossed the Potomac River on June 22, 1863, and was the first Confederate infantry to march into the town of Gettysburg on June 26. They also flew their flag over a one-time seat of the Continental Congress in York, Pennsylvania and engaged in early action during an attempt to capture the bridge over the Susquehanna River at Wrightsville, Pennsylvania. Most discussion about Gettysburg focuses on the third day, obscuring the first two days in which Robert E. Lee' s troops were far more successful, in fact on the first day, they dominated. Thirteen thousand Georgia troops played a significant role in the three-day battle. Along with a comprehensive battle history of the Georgia troops at Gettysburg, this book contains a large collection of the personal recollections of the Georgia soldiers who fought at Gettysburg. This gives a peek into the experience from the perspective of the soldiers in all branches and all ranks. Newspaper articles, letters, and photographs allow the reader to relive history through the eyes of those who lived it.

South Carolina contributed two brigades of infantry, two regiments of cavalry and several artillery batteries to the Battle of Gettysburg in July of 1863. Their veterans related accounts of heroism and fear, triumph and loss for the remainder of their lives. These are their stories. Gleaned from diaries, letters and newspaper articles written immediately after the great battle and throughout the balance of the lives of its veterans, these stories place the reader in the boots of the men who lived the experience. Included with the firsthand accounts are maps of the fields fought for by these sons of the Palmetto State and photographs of a number of the soldiers involved. Along with battle histories and the individual exploits of the brigades led by General Joseph Kershaw, General Wade Hampton and Colonel Abner Perrin are accounts of the artillery batteries from South Carolina and the improvised cavalry command assembled from scattered companies by Colonel John Logan Black, who had been left behind due to wounds from an earlier battle. Black was determined to rejoin the army as soon as he was able and caught up with General Robert E. Lee with two companies and other miscellaneous cavalrymen who had been separated from their regiments. His improvised command participated in all three days of the battle before rejoining Hampton's Brigade. Also covered are the annual reunions where the old soldiers gathered to camp once again on the fields of Gettysburg. The veterans recount many tales of reconnecting with old comrades, memories of those who never made it home, and their reconciliation with former enemies. Every strata of the soldier experience at Gettysburg is represented from the highest general to the lowliest private. Every life is a story and provides a piece toward completing the puzzle of the human experience at Gettysburg.

South Carolina contributed two brigades of infantry, two regiments of cavalry and several artillery batteries to the Battle of Gettysburg in July of 1863. Their veterans related accounts of heroism and fear, triumph and loss for the remainder of their lives. These are their stories. Gleaned from diaries, letters and newspaper articles written immediately after the great battle and throughout the balance of the lives of its veterans, these stories place the reader in the boots of the men who lived the experience. Included with the firsthand accounts are maps of the fields fought for by these sons of the Palmetto State and photographs of a number of the soldiers involved. Along with battle histories and the individual exploits of the brigades led by General Joseph Kershaw, General Wade Hampton and Colonel Abner Perrin are accounts of the artillery batteries from South Carolina and the improvised cavalry command assembled from scattered companies by Colonel John Logan Black, who had been left behind due to wounds from an earlier battle. Black was determined to rejoin the army as soon as he was able and caught up with General Robert E. Lee with two companies and other miscellaneous cavalrymen who had been separated from their regiments. His improvised command participated in all three days of the battle before rejoining Hampton's Brigade. Also covered are the annual reunions where the old soldiers gathered to camp once again on the fields of Gettysburg. The veterans recount many tales of reconnecting with old comrades, memories of those who never made it home, and their reconciliation with former enemies. Every strata of the soldier experience at Gettysburg is represented from the highest general to the lowliest private. Every life is a story and provides a piece toward completing the puzzle of the human experience at Gettysburg.