Please Give Page Time To Load Taps Will Play
In the United States you have heard the haunting song, “Taps.”
It is the song that gives you that lump in your throat and
usually tears in your eyes.
But, do you know the story behind the song? If not, I think
you will be interested to find out its humble beginnings.
Edward C. Iberger of Riverhead, NY, submitted this touching story
of how "Taps," played at military funerals, originated. I would
also like to thank the OTEField for printing this wonderful Story.
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 moan of
a soldier who lay mortally 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. Suddenly he 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 has been studying music in the South
when the war broke out. Without telling his father, he 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 partially granted. The captain had
asked if he could have a group of Army band members play a funeral
dirge of the son at the funeral. That request was turned down since
the soldier was a Confederate.
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 found on a piece of paper in the pocket
of the dead youth's uniform. This wish was granted. This music was
the haunting melody we now know as "Taps" used at military funerals
and at 2200. Here are the lyrics.
|
1st verse |
2nd verse |
3rd verse |
|
Day is done |
Fading light |
Thanks and praise, |
I too have felt the chills while
listening to "Taps" Tears come to my eyes
each time I hear it not only because it reminds me of my brother, but
something else and I never knew. I didn't even know there were words to
"Taps" but now we do. I never knew the story behind the song and I didn't
know if you knew either so this is why I did this web page. Please share
this site with others. I now have an even deeper respect for the song.
If you also notice in the verses of the song, it also mention God.
Please Remember Those Lost, Harmed, Who Served and those that didn't
make it home, They Served there Country With Pride. God Bless Them All.
Never Forget Those That Gave There Time, Service, Mind, Body, Soul And There Life
This site was Created and Designed By Me, Cindy Underwood Copyrighted (c) May 06, 2003
This site is dedicated to all the service men and women who gave everything
they had for there Country.
To My Brother: Sgt. Edward Hamilton United State Army KIA Viet Nam May 17, 1966
US Army, KIA In VietNam 173 AirBorne Brigade Sky Soliders; USA Co A 2nd Bn (Abn)
503d Inf; Co A 82d Avn Bn, Btry C 3d Pn 319th Atry, Co B 1st Bn (Abn) 503d Inf;
Co A 82d Avn Bn; 166th Trans Det.
To My Son: Schonn Underwood U.S. Navy who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom on
the USS Roosevelt which should be heading home soon. Schonn rejoined the Navy after
serving approx 10 years then when 911 happen, Schonn rejoined the United State Navy
I'm very proud of Him and all the Brave Troops that gave it there all, past present and future.
God Bless Each And Everyone Of You.
For Our Brother Sgt. Edward Hamilton United State Army KIA Viet Nam May 17, 1966
Main Site America Support Our Troops Pg1
Old Glory Laws To Protect Her & Meaning of Each Fold Pg4
