It has been brought to my attention that this is an urband ledgend...but it's still a good read. Thanks CJ

If any of you have ever been to a military funeral in which taps were played; this brings out a new meaning of it.

Here is something Every American should know. Until I read this, I didn't know, but I checked it out and it's true:

We in the United States have all heard the haunting song, "Taps". It's the song that gives us that lump in our throats and usually tears in our eyes.

But, do you know the story behind the song? If not, I think you will be interested to find out about its humble beginnings.

Reportedly , it all began in 1862 during the Civil War, when Union Army Captain Robert Ellicombe was with his men near Harrison's Landing in Virginia . The Confederate Army was on the other side of the narrow strip of land.

During the night, Captain Ellicombe heard the moans of a soldier who lay severely wounded on the field. Not knowing if it was a Union or Confederate soldier, the Captain decided to risk his life and bring the stricken man back for medical attention Crawling on his stomach through the gunfire, the Captain reached the stricken soldier and began pulling him toward his encampment

When the Captain finally reached his own lines, he discovered it was actually a Confederate soldier, but the soldier was dead.

The Captain lit a lantern and suddenly caught his breath and went numb with shock. In the dim light, he saw the face of the soldier. It was his own son. The boy had been studying music in the South when the war broke out. Without telling his father, the boy enlisted in the Confederate Army.

The following morning, heartbroken, the father asked permission of his superiors to give his son a full military burial, despite his enemy status. His request was only partially granted.

The Captain had asked if he could have a group of Army band members play a funeral dirge for his son at the funeral.

The request was turned down since the soldier was a Confederate.

But, out of respect for the father, they did say they could give him only one musician.

The Captain chose a bugler. He asked the bugler to play a series of musical notes he had found on a piece of paper in the pocket of the dead youth's uniform.

This wish was granted.

The haunting melody, we now know as "Taps" used at military funerals was born.

The words are:

Day is done.

Gone the sun.

From the lakes

From the hills.

From the sky.

All is well.

Safely rest.

God is nigh.

Fading light.

Dims the sight.

And a star.

Gems the sky.

Gleaming bright.

From afar.

Drawing nigh.

Falls the night.

Thanks and praise.

For our days.

Neath the sun

Neath the stars.

Neath the sky.



As we go.

This we know.

God is nigh

I too have felt the chills while listening to "Taps" but I have never seen all the words to the song until now. I didn't even know there was more than one verse. I also never knew the story behind the song and I didn't know if you had either so I thought I'd pass it along.

I now have an even deeper respect for the song than I did before.

Remember Those Lost and Harmed While Serving Their Country.




Also Remember Those Who Have Served And Returned; and for those presently serving in the Armed Forces.

actually "taps" plays every night at 10pm here at where im at..but thats on training bases usually

thanks for the history lesson

you/re very welcome. Hope you have a great day!!

my son and daughter-in-law are in the Air Force at Little Rock. They are both deployed right now. Thank you for your service to our country!!

thanks appreciate it

btw i loved to hear taps at night in bootcamp...i think alot of soldiers do..kinda signifies another day

now just dont ask about revielle (sp?) lol

Actually, as heart touching as it is, this is an urban legend.
http://www.snopes.com/music/songs/taps.asp This link to snopes tells the true origin and links documents for reference.

I *DO* love the legend though!
~CJ

I have heard taps played many times, I am a Viet-Nam vet! lost many friends there. lots of tears ran down my cheeks. I escorted two friends bodies home. Was in V F W Honor guard for years, yes when taps is played now it hurts

WOW Sorry for the misinformation...

I'm so sorry about your friends! My brother served also. Thank you so much for your service to our country!