Mort Kunstler - A REAL Master
In addition to writing, I am by trade, an Associate Art Director and Designer. My college education took place at The Art Institute of Pittsburgh where I studied both Art History and modern Visual Communications. Despite being both “brainwashed” and “force-fed” the styles and philosophies of the Renaissance Masters and Abstractionists, I never fully appreciated any of their work. Now don’t get me wrong, these guys could paint (and I did – and still do - enjoy Jackson Pollock’s work immensely), but I wouldn’t hang anything of theirs on MY wall. To me, military artists are the REAL masters. Their meticulous illustration, attention to detail, and historical accuracy means more to me than some “stipple brush-stroke technique”. I don’t want to look at cherubs or old broads or soup cans. I want to see battles - and generals – and flags - and glory! That’s my kinda’ art.

One of today’s most revered Civil War painters is Mort Kunstler and I have been a huge fan of his work for a very long time. To quote his own website, “Considered one of America’s greatest historical artists, Mort Kunstler has become well known for the extraordinary authenticity and drama of his work.” A few years ago, I stood in line for two hours straight at the gallery here in town (Fredericksburg Historical Prints) just to shake his hand and have my Gettysburg and Gods and Generals books autographed. It was quite a thrill for me as he was a gracious guy who made time for everybody.

This year my wife and I discussed the possibility of getting some prints for our dining room wall. Our sitting room (opposite) has three lovely “Kinkade-ish” scenes that she bought and I was hoping to get some “equal representation.” However, just like Pickett’s troops at the Battle of Gettysburg, my mission was doomed right from the start… While browsing a myriad of samples, I experienced a myriad of rejection: This one was too busy – and this one had too many colors – and no more battle scenes – and not one with too many flags in the background – and none that show officers with women other than their wives… etc. etc. etc. Finally, after what seemed like a longer period than it took Sherman to march to the sea, we agreed upon two complimentary prints that were both romantic (for her) - but still cool (for me).

We selected “Until We Meet Again” that depicts Stonewall Jackson bidding his wife farewell in front of his headquarters in Winchester, Va. (Winter 1862) and it’s “sister print” entitled “Wayside Farewell” depicting a Confederate cavalry officer saying good-bye to his wife. The setting is the Valley Pike in front of Larrick's Hotel in Middletown, Va. (Winter 1863). Both are considered among Kunstler’s best (non-battle) pieces and I believe that they really capture the essence and anxiety of leaving your loved ones behind. Ironically, these exact moments are being repeated everyday as our brave men and women say goodbye to their own families before leaving for Iraq. Painting like these help to remind us of the courage and sacrifice one commits in the fulfillment of duty.

Fredericksburg Historical Prints did an amazing matte and framing job and I highly recommend them for all of your print needs. In addition to Mort Kunstler’s work, they also represent other amazing artists such as John Paul Strain, Tom Freeman and more. And for the married fellas' out there, here’s some advice, plan to spend a few days (not hours) looking at these paintings. There’s a lot to choose from – and she’ll be sure to look at each and every one.

BTW: Here are the prints:

The Man In Black
With the recent surge of media interest leading up to the release of the film Walk The Line, I feel compelled to post a little note on my all-time favorite musician ? Mr. Johnny Cash. My father is a Man In Black aficianado, and he introduced me to the distinctive style and voice of this legend when I was a young boy. I can?t tell you how many times we sat around our living room listening to 1969?s At San Quentin which is in my opinion, one of the greatest live albums ever made. To this day, you will probably find Johnny Cash records, tapes, and CDs in virtually every Aubrecht house and vehicle. Most entertainers agree that there has never been anyone as pure as Johnny Cash (both on the stage and off). More than just a country star, Johnny was an activist, a poet, an outlaw, a singer, a songwriter, a guitarist, an actor, an author, and most importantly, a Christian. His rise from rags to riches is the personification of the ?American Dream? and his legacy will live on forever in both his music and his words. Over the years, accolades that have honored him don?t even begin to tell the story of his contributions to the 20th Century. In addition to countless country music awards, he was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1980 and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992. In 1996 he was honored with a Kennedy Center Award, and he has a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Cash was one of the initial recipients of the Library of Congress Living Legend medal in 2000. In 2002, he was honored at the Americana Awards show with a Spirit of Americana Free Speech Award.

For more visit his official website at: JohnnyCash.com

Real American Heroes
My neighbor is a hero. He wouldn?t say so, but he is. He's humble, and the kind of guy that would probably be a little embarrassed by this, so I?m leaving his name out. Honestly, I don't want to tick him off as I?m pretty sure he can take me. OK, I?m really sure, so we'll maintain his anonymity. Anyway, he is one of the ?few and the proud,? who earned every stripe by serving his country. You see, he?s a United States Marine, a Gunnery Sergeant to be exact, who took part on the front lines during the war in Iraq. He, and thousands like him, have deployed year-after-year to the other side of the world to protect our country, and liberate others.

Over the last year, I?ve become friends with him and his lovely wife, although our kid?s after-school schedules usually interfere with our ability to get together on a regular basis. Despite sharing a passion for good barbeque, the two of us are about as opposite as two men can be. He?s a proud Democrat, and I?m a disgruntled Republican. He trains for Iron Man marathons and long-distance bicycle races, while I sit in front of a computer all day, typing and eating bacon double-cheeseburgers. He loves the Vikings, and I love the Steelers. And so on and so on?

The biggest difference is that I have spent the last few years writing about war, while he's been off fighting in one. It's difficult to complain to someone like that about having a "bad day at the office," as my "worst" day was probably a helluva lot better than his "best" day on the battlefield. I mean, what could I say? The only thing I've ever been shot with is a camera, and the only risk I have to take is going with French Vanilla or Irish creamer.

When the two of us first met, we were discussing my biographies and I was surprised to find out that he had little knowledge of (and even less of an interest in) my two subjects: Stonewall Jackson and J.E.B. Stuart. I also came to realize that unlike me, he doesn?t have shelves in his office that are overflowing with books and videos about war. He doesn?t spend hours in front of the tube watching combat documentaries on the Military Channel. He doesn?t waste his time. He?s ?been there and done that? for real. I imagine the educational and entertainment value of war goes way down once you?ve experienced it first-hand.

Recently, he was attending a military school where the curriculum included the study of strategies and tactics during the Civil War. As part of their class work, the students watched Ron Maxwell films and toured the battlefields here in Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania County. Some drove 2 hours to visit Gettysburg, while others read books on both the commanders and their subordinates. Later, they split into groups for their final project. His group was tasked with "briefing" the Battle of Chancellorsville while presenting the key elements and participants from an analytical point of view.

I helped a little (very little that is) by providing copies of some books and a DVD, but ultimately the assignment required the insights and experiences of a trained soldier to gather the data required to pass the course. At his request, I reviewed both his report and slide presentation. I was extremely impressed with the quantity and quality of information. His conclusions were well documented and written as only a combat veteran could write them. In their final week, he (and his group) presented their project on Chancellorsville, received an outstanding grade, and moved on to their next duty. When it was over, he was gracious enough to present me with copies of the brief and I have read his group's meticulous timeline report over and over. Their minute-by-minute summaries of the events (from both sides) present a completely different approach to studying the Battle of Chancellorsville and I am still digesting it.

My point in all of this is that WE (the armchair historians of America), the ones that spend countless hours in the study of war, the reenactment of it, the preservation of it, will NEVER know the true feeling and emotion of stepping onto a REAL battlefield. We will never experience that test of courage, that sensation of fear, and the risk of putting our lives on the line for our country, and for our friends. They, the real soldiers, the veterans of all wars, know history like we never will, because they helped write it.

As authors and historians, we must never lose that perspective. We must never take the responsibility of recording their sacrifices lightly and we must always strive to give them the credit that they so deeply deserve. We all have an obligation to preserve their memories so that future generations will know of their courage and sacrifice. Remember this: "History is documented in ink - but written in blood."

My daughter?s school is hosting a tribute to our troops next month and in addition to a musical program filled with patriotic songs and readings, they are creating a ?Hall of Heroes? around the gymnasium. The hall is to be comprised of posters (made by the children) that pay tribute to their relatives that have served in the military. My daughter?s subject is her Great-grandfather (my wife?s Grandfather) who is 79, but doesn?t look a day over 60. Her poster reads: ?My hero is my Great-grandfather Donald Hasley. He is a WW2 Veteran who served in the 2nd Marines Division from Nov. 1943 to Mar. 1946. He was a Corporal and saw combat at Saipan and Okinawa during the Pacific Campaign. He was a sharpshooter with the M1-Rifle and a B.A.R. gun expert. He still loves the Marines and is proud to have served with them. I am proud of him too.?

I?m proud of them as well, both of them, ALL of them, and I am grateful for the freedoms that they have secured for me, so that I can safely spend my time studying and writing about them.

I tried...
I put some thought into this discussion last night when coincidentally, I stumbled upon Spike Lee making an appearance as part of the discussion panel on Bill Marr's (sp?) HBO show. I wanted to see if he had any insights that may sway my feelings in regards to this movie, but all he did was argue over-and-over that the U.S. Government intentionally planted explosives in order to blow-up the levees in New Orleans to drown poor, black people. I can't take anything he says seriously anymore.

Clearly he is bitter (although he has been blessed with great fame and fortune and has more money than any white person I know) and instead of making intelligent statements (based on facts and/or actual evidence) and spending his time writing checks to financially HELP those affected by the hurricanes - he appears more interested in making a documentary that deals with conspiracy theories and the spread of discontent.

Sorry, I tried to open my mind a little on this one, but he keeps shutting it with his irresponsible accusations and hostility. He is extremely talented, but that talent is slowly being eroded by political fanaticism.

CSA: Confederate States of America film
A controversial new film produced by Spike Lee (and company) entitled "CSA: Confederate States of America" has been released amidst a storm of both praise and controversy. The movie is stylized as a British documentary (written as a mockumentary) focusing on the United States today as if the South had won the Civil War. The script not only refrains from "pulling any punches," (which I have no problem with) but ultimately, it throws in a couple hundred more for good measure. As a Christian, I feel that I cannot even begin to describe it without offending someone, so I am posting this link for information on the movie: http://www.csathemovie.com/.

To be honest, I have not watched the film (yet), but I have followed the promotion closely, and from what I can gather, the entire pretense of this movie is almost comical. (Except that it's not funny.) Although the film's website is VERY well done, this movie, and the disturbing insight behind it, really makes me angry. It serves absolutely no purpose other than to help spread historical ignorance, rekindle the flames of racial division, and tarnish any reputable histories of the Confederacy in the eyes of the common public.

The film's so-called "historical perspective" is founded on total speculation (filled with serious satirical and offensive content) and I would liken it to taking one of Spike Lee's favorite historical figures and rewriting imaginary history simply to ignite a flame. IE: What if his hero Malcolm X would not have been killed, the Nation of Islam becomes a major political body, and Islam becomes the national religion pushing the U.S. into the same crisis experienced now in the Middle East. Sounds absurd right? That is the exact type of "philosophy" and extremism behind this film.

Plus (as an example of the lack of accuracy) it appears that they are only using the C.S.A. battle flag (where applicable) in place of the correct Confederate flag. I assume they did this as most people (in the general public) don't know the difference. Now I'm all for free speech and artistic expression, and Spike Lee has made some good films in the past, but I cannot see anything constructive in this project other than to tick off both blacks and whites with one person's skewed perception of history and futurism.

Does anyone (deep down) actually believe that if the South had won the war, we would be watching the "Slave-Shopping Network" and surfing "E-Slave" in 2005? Would we not have righted the wrongs of the past by the times of today's modern and more civilized society? I like to think so. Regardless, this is not what I would call good, debate generating entertainment or remotely educational in any form. (JMO)

Also - I don't want to make it sound as if this topic isn't worth exploring - just that this appears as an extremely one-sided, sensationalized, and profit-driven way to do it. Look out for more "hurt" than "help" thanks to this one. I have always respected Spike Lee's work, but this project has left me questioning his motives. I will not be spending one cent on a ticket at the theater, but I will probably rent it on video and revisit this topic at a later date.

Review of the reviewer
Recently, a rather sarcastic piece was posted on a weblog in regards to one of my book reviews. After spending some time browsing through the site, I found a well written and organized blog with many intelligent insights. Some I agree wholeheartedly with, while others left me either dumbfounded, or totally in disagreement. It seems the proprietor of this blog prides himself on discovering, defining, and exposing "original and accurate" history versus "incorrect common and/or popular opinions". At least I think that is his intent.

Read post here: Grant Book Reviews

Summarily, he posted: "The excesses of Centennial Doctrine have left many readers vulnerable to that kind of information." Not sure I understand? Apparently, he was in disagreement with my "take" on a book about U.S. Grant (I think for either stating the obvious and/or propagating what he feels are misconceptions on "Old Sam"). I find that a bit strange as the author (Mr. Ballard) liked it.

The reviews that I write (for the most part) are geared toward generating interest (within the general public) on books about the Civil War. I like to think that I get paid to produce an honest, but "reader-friendly" critique that may (or may not) convince a "non-buff" to pick up a copy and take an interest into what I consider to be the most important time is U.S. history (minus the Revolution of course!)

I always interview the author as part of the piece and the publishers have been very receptive and generous to my comments. The die-hards (myself included) probably want more, but I like to think I am attempting to bring new "future" die-hards "on board" and my "CW-geek" peers already know much more than I could fit into a 1000 word essay. There are reviewers who take great strides in writing very long-winded, detailed, and technical critiques of books in order to provide the enthusiasts and buffs with a "scientific study." I read them. I love them... in Civil War Magazines - not in the Weekender tabloid of a Sat. newspaper.

I was hired by an editor to write quote: "blue-collar" reviews that will make people interested in something they may know nothing about. The publishing companies send the books and IF I like them, I try to do what I can to help sell some. I have 2 books out myself and we authors need all the help we can get. If I don't like a book, I simply do not review it. Now please do not feel that I am not practicing integrity when I review, I ONLY review the ones I like in hopes of sharing it with others. (I would like to know what he thinks of the other reviews I have done.)

Anyway I wanted to reply to this individual - not to explain, or argue, or apologize, or make any excuses, but to simply thank him for his opinion and ask that he continues to read my work. Unfortunately, after searching high and low, I was unable to find any kind of email or contact link. This does bother me as someone who "critiques" others work, should at least allow us a chance to comment or defend ourselves. That is why I am simply posting this here, hoping he will find it and contact me for a nice discussion and/or debate. (I certainly hope he will find this when "Googling" and contact me.)

As a historian and writer I can always do better, and although I feel he may be misunderstanding the intended audience of this piece, I'm sure his insights might help me grow. I do intend to frequent his blog and hope that he will visit mine. I'm posting his name ONLY in hopes that it will help him to read this.

Dimitri Rotov (Civil War Bookshelf), I'm waiting...

Please contact me via the link on the Pinstripe Press website (see link to left) and we can pleasantly discuss "The excesses of Centennial Doctrine".

Response to more anti-Confederate press
Religious radio talk-show host Rabbi Shmuley Boteach recently published an article that stated, "As an American who loves his country, I am appalled by the persistence of Confederate hero worship in the South 140 years after the Civil War's end. After all, the South fought for a truly evil cause." Read complete article "The Sin of Confederate Hero Worship" Article Here Although I have enjoyed some of his articles in the past, I had to respond negatively to this one. My letter is below. I will keep you posted on his reply.

Rabbi,

As one who has (on occasion) enjoyed your radio show, I am well aware of your intelligence, faith and wonderful common-sense conservative views. However, your recent column on the so-called "sin of Confederate hero worship" was in stark contrast to the usual wit and insight that I am used to hearing (and/or reading) from yourself.

As both a Christian and Civil War Historian, I must voice my displeasure with your anti-Confederate remarks. I live in Fredericksburg, VA - just off of Jefferson Davis highway - and about 5 miles from the Stonewall Jackson Shrine. I am glad that you toured our area. I love living here.

I also write articles for our local paper and have been a strong supporter of both the teaching of unbiased history and heritage preservation. I have also published two Christian-based biographies on General Stonewall Jackson (entitled "Onward Christian Soldier") and General JEB Stuart (entitled "Christian Cavalier").

I have spent the better part of my 33 years on this earth studying the War Between the States and the Word of God. Although I am by no means an "expert" like yourself, I have come to the conclusion that many of the men who commanded troops and/or carried the "stars and bars" on behalf of the Confederate States of America - were (in their minds) defending their homelands from the invasion of a republican force sent to nullify their state's rights.

Now I am a realist, and I also acknowledge that many others did fight to preserve slavery, BUT not all - and to remember the fallen "heroes" who died fighting on behalf of their God and country is not a sin in any form. Many of these men were very devout Christians and men of high morale-character. That is why I chose to write these intimate portraits of men who practiced a faith that was both inspiring and infectious.

Articles like yours are stereotypical and uninformed. They simply further the ignorance of the "general" American public, and help to spread discontent between the north and south.

I invite you to visit my website and I would be more than happy to send an electronic version (PDF file) of my biographies for your review. Both are not long pieces (75-pages) and focus on the spiritual side of these men as the foundation of faith that enabled them to reach legendary heights both on the battlefield and also in death. They are stories about faith, and grace, and leaving behind a meaningful legacy as a believer in the Lord above. These men were soldiers - but more importantly, they were fathers, sons, brothers, and husbands.

As I stated in my opening paragraph, I have enjoyed several of your commentaries in the past, but this article is most offensive - not only to southerners - but to the memories of these great men in gray.

I thank you for your time and consideration and I look forward to your reply.
Michael Aubrecht

Passing of Shelby Foote
Only days after the passing of historian Brian Pohanka, CW author Shelby Foote has also left us at the age of 88. Foote, a Mississippi native and longtime Memphis resident, wrote six novels but is best remembered for his three-volume, 3,000-page history of the Civil War and his appearance on the PBS series "The Civil War."

Like Brian, Foote was a huge inspiration to me and I am honestly in shock at these turn of events. I feel the need to reflect on both of these men and perhaps write some sort of tribute. I pray that the Foote family can find comfort in knowing that Shelby touched the lives of so many people.

Passing of Brian Pohanka
Today I was browsing the Civil War Preservation Trust website, when I read that renown Civil War historian, author and preservationist Brian Pohanka had passed away. Brian remains one of my personal idols and was a true giant in the historic preservation community. Few people have contributed more to the memory of Civil War history than Brian and his efforts will not be forgotten. I will miss his presence immensely.

A familiar expert on countless Civil War documentaries, Brian was featured on such programs as Civil War Journal and Ken Burns’ landmark The Civil War. His insights and writings were an inspiration to me personally and his example helped me to pursue my own Civil War publications.

CWPT President James Lighthizer made the following statement in the wake of Brian’s passing:

“Arguably Brian’s most important contribution – in a life full of great contributions – was in 1987, when he helped start the battlefield preservation movement that we know today. Brian hosted some of the first meetings Association for the Preservation of Civil War Sites, a group that would later become the Civil War Preservation Trust. Thanks to Brian’s foresight and commitment, hallowed battlefields that would otherwise have been paved over remain for future generations to visit and venerate. We at the Civil War Preservation Trust are proud and honored to carry on the work he started.”

I would like to offer my most sincere condolences to Brian’s family and friends. I pray that they find comfort in knowing that Brian is in a much better place, perhaps sharing his passion with the very men he studied.

Op-Ed: Fredericksburg, VA Free Lance-Star
Billy Yank and Johnny Reb both had merits
The teaching of history--particularly Civil War history--should be balanced.
Letter to the Editor by Michael Aubrecht (Date published: 6/12/2005)
Link to posted version: http://fredericksburg.com/News/FLS/2005/062005/06122005/104794

The other day my father and I were discussing the volume of letters recently published in the Free Lance-Star on the Civil War and its impact on our region. This led to a friendly debate of our own--and I was reminded of how very different the War Between the States is presented depending on where you live.

At the age of 33, I've spent the first half of my life living just a few hours from Gettysburg and the last half living in Fredericksburg. Growing up in Pennsylvania, I was taught the Union's point of view, while my adult education in Virginia has focused more on the Confederacy's. Regardless of what "side" you line up on, it should bother all of us that "Rebs and Yanks" living in the same country are being intentionally skewed in their understanding of the Civil War.

In the North, "the Gray" is often portrayed as the bad guys, a bunch of barefoot, slave-owning ingrates. In the South, "the Blue" is often remembered as an evil dictatorship, hell-bent on invasion and the nullification of states' rights.

In many ways both are right, and both are wrong. Now, given the relaxed teaching standards in schools today, imagine what our kids think.

I remember in sixth grade, the Civil War took up months of our history-class curriculum. Today, it seems that many schools are glazing over the conflict in a matter of weeks. Many of the newer textbooks, for example, leave out important events and present what is left over in a very generic and politically correct manner.

This can be partially blamed on teachers who blindly use whatever lesson plan is presented to them from the book-of-the-month club.

Also, parents are at fault--as we often accept this "generic" American history (in abbreviated format) as adequate material for our children's education.

Finally, writers and historians (me included) share the guilt as we often present our own findings with a loyalist attitude.

School textbooks and lesson plans need to be written for the whole country, not just a part of it. They need to teach both sides of the war factually and equally. And they should not sit on the same shelf as books like mine. Children are an audience that can be easily influenced, and sometimes not for the better. Adults, on the other hand, can judge for themselves.

Although there is a time and place for the personalization or editorialization of history, history should (at its most rudimentary level) be presented with a fair and impartial agenda.

A good foundation must be balanced before you can build on it. That foundation starts in the classroom.

Why can't schools on both sides of the Mason-Dixon Line simply present data in a clear and concise manner, and allow the individual's opinions to form later, based on a well-rounded education?

Why do we have to either ignore things like they never happened, or rewrite them as we see fit, according to our geographic location?

How do you honestly define the "bad guy" when it was brother against brother?

I don't expect every kid in America to become a Civil War buff or grow up to be a re-enactor--but I would like children to have an opportunity to learn the facts about both sides. This problem is not limited to our area, and it's not limited to the Civil War.

History depends on the recording and presentation of accurate data. Anything else is about as truthful as advertising. Nowadays, our country doesn't seem to get that.

One of the many major issues of the War Between the States revolved around equal rights--and that is the exact principle we should be practicing when teaching our kids about it. Otherwise, we are simply breeding ignorance and continuing the struggle for future generations.

Michael Aubrecht, of Spotsylvania County, is the author of "Onward Christian Soldier: The Spiritual Journey of Stonewall" and "Christian Cavalier: The Legacy of J.E.B. Stuart."