Vernon in Virginia~Formerly Alaska
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[size=large]Today marks the 175th anniversary of the beginning of the siege on the Alamo, February 23, 1836. A gravely ill Jim Bowie, unable to continue his joint command, turns over sole command to William Travis. The next day, Travis writes his famous letter:
February 24, 1836
"To the People of Texas and All Americans in the World -
Fellow Citizens and Compatriots:
I am besieged with a thousand or more of the Mexicans under Santa Anna. I have sustained a considerable Bombardment and cannonade for 24 hours and have not lost a man. The enemy has demanded surrender at discretion, otherwise the garrison is to be put to the sword, if the fort is taken. I have answered the demand with a cannon shot, and our flag still waves proudly from the wall. I shall never surrender or retreat. Then, I call on you in the name of Liberty, of patriotism, and everything dear to the American character, to come to our aid with all dispatch. The enemy is receiving reinforcements daily and will no doubt increase to three or four thousand in four or five days. If this call is neglected I am determined to sustain myself as long as possible and die like a soldier who never forgets which is due his honor and that of his country. VICTORY OR DEATH.
William Barret Travis, Lt. Col. commanding the Alamo"
May GOD Bless Texas!
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February 24, 1836
"To the People of Texas and All Americans in the World -
Fellow Citizens and Compatriots:
I am besieged with a thousand or more of the Mexicans under Santa Anna. I have sustained a considerable Bombardment and cannonade for 24 hours and have not lost a man. The enemy has demanded surrender at discretion, otherwise the garrison is to be put to the sword, if the fort is taken. I have answered the demand with a cannon shot, and our flag still waves proudly from the wall. I shall never surrender or retreat. Then, I call on you in the name of Liberty, of patriotism, and everything dear to the American character, to come to our aid with all dispatch. The enemy is receiving reinforcements daily and will no doubt increase to three or four thousand in four or five days. If this call is neglected I am determined to sustain myself as long as possible and die like a soldier who never forgets which is due his honor and that of his country. VICTORY OR DEATH.
William Barret Travis, Lt. Col. commanding the Alamo"
May GOD Bless Texas!
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