The Appomattox Generals

<p> Joshua L. Chamberlain of Maine and John B. Gordon of Georgia led the Union and Confederate armies respectively at the formal surrender ceremony at Appomattox Courthouse Virginia on April 12 1865. In one of the most dramatic and memorable moments of the Civil War as the Confederate soldiers marched through the Union lines to stack their weapons and flags Chamberlain moved by the historic moment and desiring to pay honor to a valiant defeated foe ordered his Union soldiers to salute Gordon's Confederates. Gordon surprised but stirred by the same emotion immediately responded and ordered his men to return the salute.</p><p> Both men had volunteered for military service feeling a strong need to fight for their respective causes. They entered military service as low level officers with no formal military training. Repeatedly they exhibited exceptional aptitude and responsibility rising through the ranks as they received the glowing accolades of their superiors. Yet they remained humble continually demonstrating extraordinary courage which earned them the respect of their men. Ultimately their heroism and leadership culminated in their meeting as the commanders at the Appomattox Courthouse surrender. After the war Chamberlain and Gordon entered politics in their respective states.</p>