“[M]y religious belief teaches me to feel as safe in battle as in bed. God has fixed the time for my death. I do not concern myself about that, but to be always ready, no matter when it may overtake me. That is the way all men should live, and then all would be equally brave.” –Stonewall Jackson

Today we mark the birth anniversary of Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson (1824-1863), a great military commander and a man of equally great faith who gave his life for the cause of liberty and states’ rights.

Jackson died of pneumonia after being accidentally shot by his own men during the Battle of Chancellorsville in May 1863. Upon learning that Jackson lay dying, Gen. Robert E. Lee said, “Give General Jackson my affectionate regards, and say to him: he has lost his left arm but I my right.”