File:79. Sen. Russell Long to Supt. GNMP Jerry L. Schober (Enclosure), March 16, 1971 Page 3 (0913edc7-fad1-40b7-a8c3-b15e6125d7b3).jpg

White paper with typed black text and a handwritten signature

I have been advised recently by Colonel Karl N. Smith, General Staff Officer in the Louisiana Adjutant General’s Office, that there was a wire fence within fourteen feet of the monument site in front of the location where the monument is to be erected. This fence evidently has been placed there since we selected the site in 1967. It is our considered opinion that you and Senator Ellender might intervene in our behalf to the present Superintendent to have this fence removed for the dedication, even though we might have to replace it later. Colonel Smith says that he will not have sufficient space for the military band, the two howitzers which will be used for the firing salute and for visitors to stand in front of the monument on dedication day, June 11, 1971. I shall make a request of Mr. Schober, and with requests coming from both you and Senator Ellender, we certainly could have the fence removed for the dedication. In the interim, I will continue with the publication with our official historical brochure and await anxiously for some additional word from you. Accept my thanks and deepest appreciation for your willingness to take time from your busy schedule to assist Louisiana in the fulfillment of this long-awaited goal, I am Sincerely yours, [Signed] (Mrs.) Clarence R. Letteer, Chairman State of Louisiana Gettysburg Memorial Commission

• Keywords: Gettysburg; Gettysburg National Military Park; Photography; monuments; memorials; virtual experience; battlefield