Gettysburg Battle

by Randy Hart

(Franklin, PA)

First, second, third July 1863,

living remains today are the witness tree,

It was Jonny reb against Billy yank,

Spangler’s spring is where they drank.

As day one ended the confederates were winning,

but Buford and the rest done their job by delaying.

More troops arrived for both sides throughout the night.

4 o’clock on day two death came with the fight.

Wheatfield, peach orchard and devils den,

culps hill, round tops and the slaughter pen.

Late at night, day two came to an end,

with no winners and all on the mend.

Day three began early up on culps hill,

a 7 hour battle with lots to kill.

General Lee’s plan was too out-flank,

confusion came as the plan sank.

Lee decided the union center was weak,

cannons unloaded before the battles peak.

Pickett’s charge began as it is well known,

12,000 men march into a death zone.

The end of battle and a rebel defeat,

now the confederates begin their retreat.

So honor and respect these men and sacred ground,

when I retire this is where I will be found.