The History of Taps submitted by Sean J.
We have all heard the haunting song, "Taps." It's the song that gives
us that lump in our throats and usually creates tears in our eyes. But, do
you know the story behind the song? If not, I think you will be pleased to
find out about it's humble beginnings.
Reportedly, it all began in 1862 during the Civil War, when Union Army
Captain Robert Ellicombe was with his men near Harrison's Landing in
Virginia. The Confederate Army was on the other side of the narrow strip of
land. During the night, Captain Ellicombe heard the moans of a soldier who
lay severely wounded on the field. Not knowing if it was a Union or
Confederate soldier, the Captain decided to risk his life and bring the
stricken man back for medical attention.
Crawling on his stomach through the gunfire, the Captain reached the stricken
soldier and began pulling him toward his encampment. When the Captain finally
reached his own lines, he discovered it was actually a Confederate soldier,
but the soldier was dead. The Captain lit a lantern and suddenly caught his
breath and went numb with shock. In the dim light, he saw the face of the
soldier. It was his own son. The boy had been studying music in the South
when the war broke out. Without telling his father, the boy enlisted
in the Confederate Army.
The following morning, heartbroken, the father asked permission of his
superiors to give his son a full military burial despite his enemy
status. His request was only partially granted. The Captain had asked if he
could have a group of Army band members play a funeral dirge for his son at
the funeral. The request was turned down since the soldier was a Confederate.
But, out of respect for the father, they did say they could give him
only one musician. The Captain chose a bugler. He asked the bugler to play a
series of musical notes he had found on a piece of paper in the pocket of the
dead youth's uniform. This wish was granted. The haunting melody, we now know
as "Taps" used at military funerals, was born.
Day is done
Gone the sun
From the Lakes
From the hills From the sky.
All is well,
Safely rest.
God is nigh.
Fading light
Dims the sight
And a star
Gems the sky,
Gleaming bright From afar,
Drawing nigh,
Falls the night.
Thanks and praise,
For our days,
Neath the sun,
Neath the stars,
Neath the sky,
As we go,
This we know,
God is nigh.