Core: Travel Project: Journal Entry Example

David Masenhimer

Masenhimer, A.M. Core

September 17, 2012

Travel Project: Journal Entry #1

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

           

            The first destination that I reached from traveling was Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.  This small farm town was once the battle site of the American Civil War’s bloodiest battle fought between the North’s Union troops and the South’s Confederate troops.  The battle began on July 1, 1863 with muskets being fired by the Union on the low ridges of the Northwest.  Looking across the battle field, it was evident that the Confederates assaulted the Union’s territory on the North/North Western collapsing the stronghold sending masses of troops flooding the streets and retreating for safety.  Both sets of troops set up camp and re-strategized around fires and meals. The fighting continued for two more days and the town of Gettysburg still shows signs of a war torn city.  While I stood in this historic place, I could practically hear the voices of the 46,000-51,000 slain troops, for during those three days in 1863 was the battle in which the most troops died.  It was there that then President Abraham Lincoln addressed the crowds on November 19, 1863 at the dedication of the Soldier’s National Cemetery.  The cemetery is in between two semi-circular sections with 18 Union States’ areas.  The monument lies on 17 acres of gravestones and a National Monument.  One may feel a real sense of pride standing proudly on the ground that resembles such an important piece of our country’s history. 

            While visiting Pennsylvania, I stopped by the capital building to have an interview with United States Senator Bob Casey.  Senator Casey is affiliated with the democratic party and has many contemporary issues that he feels are priorities for the populous in his state and those living in the United States.  The first issue Senator Casey and I discussed was tax credits to encourage employers to hire workers.  Casey stated that the unemployment problem in the nation is a pressing issue and incentives must be offered for employers to get the unemployed back to work.  When a similar initiative was passed, Pennsylvania was one of the 10 states with the highest hires: 333, 255.  Meaning the incentive was effective and that people are now employed as a result.   

            The other issue that Senator Casey and I discussed was the environment.  He emphasized his push for protecting the rich environment in Pennsylvania.  While Casey realizes the economic benefit of the state’s natural gas rush, he believes that the gas must be extracted properly in able to ensure that workers on the rigs be protected for their health and safety.  He stated, “The federal government should encourage public-private partnerships to spur growth in related industries that use natural gas to create jobs and reduce the demand for foreign oil.”  It is apparent that Pennsylvania citizens are in good hands when it comes to representation in Government.