Headquarters, Army of Northern Virginia
May 20, 1864
The commanding general announces to the army with heartfelt sorrow the death of Maj Genl J. E. B. Stuart, late commander of the Cavalry Corps of the Army of Northern Virginia. Among the gallant soldiers who have fallen in this war General Stuart was second to none in valor, in zeal, and in unfaltering devotion to his country. His achievements form a conspicuous part of the history of this army, with which his name and services will be forever associated. To military capacity of a high order and all the nobler virtues of the soldier he added the brighter graces of a pure life, guided and sustained by the Christian’s faith and hope. The mysterious hand of an all wise God has removed him from the scene of his usefulness and fame. His grateful countrymen will mourn his loss and cherish his memory. To his comrades in arms he has left the proud recollection of his deeds, and the inspiring influence of his example.
R. E. Lee
General
Source: The Wartime Papers of R. E. Lee, edited by Clifford Dowdey and Louis Manarin, p. 736.
Transcribed by Colin Woodward, 2016 May 12
