HEROES

I grew up learning about Captain Myles Keogh, my ancestor. Myles was a cavalry officer in the U.S. Army in both the Civil War and the Indian Wars. He left Ireland and never went home. He fought bravely and was brevetted up the promotion ladder to Major. When the Civil War was over, he remained in the peace time army. Eventually, he took command of a troop in the 7th Cavalry and in June 1876, met his fate.

Last Stand Hill in Montana. The hills are covered with the white headstones of where the soldiers fell during their brief and vicious fight with the Lakota, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes under the loose direction of Sitting Bull. Custer made numerous mistakes which are still the subject of discussion. History is subject to revision and Little Big Horn Battle has been revised, I think for the good. The battlefield came alive for me as I walked the site where my ancestor fell. No matter the revision, the men who fought on both sides fought heroically for the cause they believed in.

Additional heroes are to be found at Mt. Rushmore, South Dakota. The heads of the Presidents is unbelievable to behold.

The avenue of the states walking towards the monument. After a surprise $10 for parking, the monument is set up beautifully for viewing. The car plates show how important the monument is to all. For the kids, try the junior ranger program.

History comes in both small and large events. Keogh played a small part in a big event. The Presidents on the monument are my favorites. Each of their actions in office influenced the country for the good. I wonder what they would do now.