HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF
THE POTOMAC,
June 30, 1863.
The commanding general requests that previous to the
engagement soon expected with the enemy, corps and all other commanding
officers address their troops, explaining to them briefly the immense issues
involved in the struggle. The enemy are on our soil. The whole country now
looks anxiously to this army to deliver it from the presence of the foe. Our
failure to do so will leave us no such welcome as the swelling of millions of
hearts with pride and joy at our success would give to every soldier of this
army. Homes, firesides, and domestic altars are involved. The army has fought
well heretofore; it is believed that it will fight more desperately and bravely
than ever if it is addressed in fitting terms.
Corps and other commanders are authorized to order the
instant death of any soldier who fails in his duty at this hour.
By command of
Major-General Meade:
S. WILLIAMS,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
SOURCE: George Meade, The Life and Letters of George
Gordon Meade, Vol. 2, p. 15-6; The War of the Rebellion: A
Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies,
Series I, Volume 27, Part 3 (Serial No. 45), p. 415
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