You made mention that we would never be nothing more than local yokels or something of that nature

George, my friend I never called you a yokel. Nor did I say anything about SHAPE. I did mention other southern sites where I have been insulted much like it seems you have been when I recited some facts. In fact an individual once told me if I came to Lexington KY, he would whip me and my momma too...lol. I debate with facts my friend, anytime and anyplace. Neither do I attack people or call them names, you see it's my belief when you do so, that you have already lost the battle. Now let me address two issues if I may, to wit: USCT troops. I don't know about the unit that you researched but many did put their lives on the line. Once again, and this may surprise you George, I agree that their losses compared to their white brethren were very low. Now about those overseas friends. Should they concur in sincerity with your views that is all well and good. I wonder though how many of them take the Confederate slant out of an European resentment that has grown against the US since World War Two, because webecame the Superpower and they did not nor can not? One other point George, you do realize how hard it is to argue against what? Five or six posters to your one. This site is overwhelmingly pro-Confederate. So far as I see, I'm the only pro-Union person on it. There are pro-Union sites on the Internet, try going there George and use your debates, then you can walk in my moccasins...lol. I will take up your invitation and visit SHAPE this week, though I suspect I have met many members on this board.

Chase.