In reference to Rabbi Stephanie Aaron’s article on the Gettysburg Address (“My line, and Mitch’s, in the Gettysburg Address,” AJP 10/25/13), I feel a statistical correction is warranted. The 50,000 figure of men lost in the battle should more accurately refer to the total casualties estimates, which include all killed, wounded, missing and captured in the three days of battle for both Union and Confederate forces. Nevertheless, this underscores the level of sacrifice endured towards preservation of the country.
I commend Rabbi Aaron for her interest and devotion in preserving the historical significance of Lincoln’s inspiring address.
— Clark Barnes, USN (Ret.)
