Meet Lance R. of Canton, NY

Visiting the luminaries display at Antietam at night and looking across fields of light where over 23,000 causalities occurred was a sight to touch any soul.

Lance Rudiger, Color Bearer

 

 

American Battlefield Trust: What moved you to first give to our organization?

Lance: My great-grandfather fought from 1861-1863 and participated in most of the major engagements and events of that era. After visiting Sharpsburg and Antietam, where a large memorial for his outfit is only yards from the Visitor Center, I was inspired to help save those sites. 

What do you enjoy most about being a Color Bearer?

The passion and knowledge of the group. The entire Trust had that but the Color Bearers seemed to have distilled its essence. 

What is your favorite battlefield you’ve visited?

Visiting the luminaries display at Antietam at night and looking across fields of light where over 23,000 causalities occurred was a sight to touch any soul. The night I visited there was a ground fog and full moon. Every once in a while a paper sack would ignite. It was as if a soldier was "giving up the ghost."

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

Switzerland, home of my grandfather and site of story of Heidi, my daughter’s name.

What would you like to pass on to future generations?

The willingness to fight for the conviction of truth. Most of these people throughout history have stood up to defend truth and light for other people they probably would never meet.

If you could meet any historical figure, who would you choose and why?

George Washington. Unlike most "famous" people, he becomes more amazing as you study him. I wish he was still taught. As Robert E. Lee's father said in Washington's eulogy: "First in War, First in Peace, First in the hearts of his countrymen."

Anything else you want to share?

God bless the peacemakers.