This Memorial Day, I have chosen to honor Civil War soldier Jacob Bruner, one of the hundreds of men who died at Milliken’s Bend on June 7, 1863.

Bruner was 29 years old when he enlisted in the 68th Ohio Volunteer Infantry in November of 1861. His regiment participated in the reduction of Fort Donelson in February 1862, but spent most of its time after that in marching and guard duty. In the spring of 1863 he was among the first men to volunteer to serve as officers in the newly-recruiting 9th Louisiana Infantry, African Descent, which would later be known as the 5th U.S. Colored Heavy Artillery. Like nearly all Union African American regiments of the time, the officers would be white men, while the enlisted men were African Americans. Most of the officers were experienced soldiers from U.S. Grant’s Army of the Tennessee. Most of the Black enlisted men had been enslaved on nearby plantations in northeastern Louisiana.

Bruner favored the new initiative, writing his wife that “the slavery question which has puzzled our fathers for 50 years is now being settled,” calling it a “master stroke of policy” from the Lincoln administration. Bruner was not alone. He reported that his fellow white soldiers received the news with shouts and applause.

Just a few weeks later, he wrote: “I am happy and think myself fortunate in enjoying so much of the confidence of my country and the President to be able to assist in this new and as I believe successful experiment.”

Bruner’s letters are full of his personality. Nearly always in good spirits and good health (at least, that was what he made sure to tell his wife, Martha), he finds the area near Milliken’s Bend pleasant in climate, and beautiful and bountiful in spring, commenting on the rich greens of the growing trees and rapidly growing peaches. His affection for his wife and family are touching. Again and again he tells her that he hopes to come home in the fall or perhaps, she may be able to come south to spend some time with him. “A thousand kisses to you and the children” he writes in closing one letter.

Alas, like more than 100 other men of the 9th Louisiana, Bruner died on June 7, 1863 at the battle of Milliken’s Bend. Capt. Lyman Hissong had to write the sad news to Mrs. Bruner. His letter was published in the Paulding Independent on July 11, 1863. “He was much loved and highly respected and considered a brave and noble defender of his country.” Hissong reported that Bruner was shot through the head and died instantly. His sword was carried away by the Rebels in the course of the battle, who also looted his pockets. “He was buried as decently as circumstances would allow,” wrote Hissong. “I had a head board placed at the head of his grave and plainly marked so that it can be found at any time.” “He has done his duty and has given his life for the preservation of the Union,” Hissong continued, “I doubt not he is richly rewarded for his noble deeds and has found a brighter home in Heaven.”

It is not clear where Bruner’s body rests today. One source indicates he may be buried at Vicksburg National Cemetery, but the cemetery itself does not have a listing for him. Martha went on and remarried, twice. Jacob was survived by his three children: Martha Ellen, Sarah Jane, and Hiram.

This Memorial Day, pause to remember the reason we have this holiday. It is not about hot dogs, baseball games, or race cars. It’s not about having a day off of work. It is so that we can remember and honor those who gave so much for our country. Like Jacob Bruner and all the others, who sacrificed their dreams and futures and even a happy time with their family – so that we all could enjoy those many privileges today. They gave up their very lives so that we could enjoy the rights, privileges and freedoms that we too-often take for granted. Take some time today to memorialize and thank them, in spirit and in prayer, for their supreme sacrifice they made for you, and for us all.

Sources: Jacob Bruner Papers, Ohio History Connection. Paulding Independent, July 16, 1863, available online through the online newspaper archive of Paulding County Carnegie Library.