HERMITAGE, Tenn. – The Tennessee National Guard honored former President Andrew Jackson on what would have been his 255th birthday March 15 with a wreath-laying ceremony at Jackson’s home, The Hermitage, outside Nashville.
Brig. Gen. Warner Ross, Tennessee’s assistant adjutant general-Army, placed a wreath at the tomb of the seventh president to celebrate his life and many contributions to the nation. The wreath is presented on behalf of the president of the United States.
“Honoring President Jackson is always special for the Tennessee National Guard,” said Ross. “He has many accomplishments — as a self-made man, an elected official, and his numerous military successes — he lived an extraordinary life.”
Jackson was born in 1767 and orphaned by the age of 14. His path to the presidency started as a lawyer and judge before his election to Congress. Jackson’s military career led him to a prominent role in leading the U.S. Army during the War of 1812. At the Battle of New Orleans, General Jackson’s troops defeated a larger British force in what is widely considered the greatest American land victory during the war.
“Jackson was a true Tennessean and a true American, in every sense of the word,” said Ross.
In addition to Ross’ role as keynote speaker, the Tennessee National Guard provided a color guard and chaplain, and the 129th Army Band performed. After the ceremony, visitors explored The Hermitage, a national historic landmark that hosts more than 75,000 guests every year.