Confederate Monument’s Return Announced by Defense Secretary

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has announced the return of “The Reconciliation Monument,” a Confederate memorial, to Arlington National Cemetery. The announcement was made on Tuesday, highlighting the monument’s historical significance and its rightful place near the burial site of its sculptor, Moses Ezekiel. Hegseth expressed pride in reinstating the monument, which he described as a beautiful and historic sculpture. The decision comes after the monument was removed in 2023 as part of efforts by the Pentagon to eliminate Confederate symbols from military installations.

Controversy Surrounding the Monument’s Removal

The removal of the monument sparked debate, with Hegseth criticizing those he referred to as “woke lemmings” for taking it down. He emphasized the importance of preserving American history rather than erasing it. At the time of its removal, GOP lawmakers argued that the monument did not glorify the Confederacy but rather symbolized reconciliation and national unity.

Historical Context and Significance

Unveiled in 1914 by President Woodrow Wilson, “The Reconciliation Monument” was commissioned by the United Daughters of the Confederacy. Its creation followed Congress’s authorization for the reinternment of Confederate remains at Arlington National Cemetery, which occurred 14 years earlier. The monument serves as a reminder of efforts toward national healing after the Civil War.

Moses Ezekiel: Sculptor and Confederate Veteran

Moses Ezekiel, a Jewish American sculptor and Confederate veteran, created the monument. Encouraged by General Robert E. Lee to pursue art after the war, Ezekiel studied at Virginia Military College and became renowned for his work. His contributions to art and history are recognized with his burial at Arlington National Cemetery.