BGES’s April 15 tour of Gettysburg was unforgettable for those of us privileged to host wounded warriors undergoing treatment at Bethesda Naval Hospital and their family members. We’re proud that members’ donations completely fund such events. No one makes a penny and all money we receive goes to cover the program’s essential expenses.
A dozen warriors accepted our invitation to join BGES, thus enriching our membership immeasurably.
Pictured is the BGES’ Wounded Warrior cohort at Little Round Top. Executive Director, Len Riedel, served as tour guide and the group was joined by reenactors Colonel Horace Porter and Lt. Colonel Henry Pleasants.
The real Porter would go on to be one of General U.S. Grant’s aides and would write a book on Grant after the war entitled, “Campaigning with Grant.” Pleasants would be called upon to dig a mine underneath Elliot’s Salient in the lines at Petersburg in July 1864 — the resulting explosion was the start of the battle of the Crater.
You’ll notice that we also have “helpers” — BGES members who volunteer their time to make these tours memorable for our service members and their families. There’s a spot for you, if you’d like to join us: BGES Yellow Ribbon Tours
Photo courtesy of BGES member, Charles Lee – a volunteer supporter and photographer for both BGES and the Yellow Ribbon Fund.