National Cemeteries were first developed in the United States during the Civil War. Due to mounting war casualties, on July 17, 1862, Congress empowered President Abraham Lincoln, "to purchase cemetery grounds and cause them to be securely . . . — — Map (db m157063) HM
The inscription on the base of the memorial bench is taken from his final formal speech given prior to his death on April 15, 1865. It was a five-minute speech where Lincoln reminded his audience that slavery had been the central cause of the Civil . . . — — Map (db m157064) HM
Threat of war in 1940 transformed the farming town of Elwood into a munitions manufacturing hub. The War Department acquired 40,000 acres and built two massive plants to assemble bombs and shells. The factories employed more than 20,000 people. . . . — — Map (db m157067) HM
Gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people have served honorably and admirably in America's armed forces. In their memory and in appreciation of their selfless service and sacrifice. — — Map (db m175190) WM
