At the start of the War of 1812, the United States government had a major problem. Unprepared for a war so soon after establishing independence from Great Britain, the regular army numbered less than 12,000 strong. The state militias, who were counted on to bolster the army’s ranks to 35,000, showed little interest in serving with inexperienced commanders outside of their home states. The situation looked grim.
But when the call reached Tennessee, 3,500 volunteers enthusiastically answered. Placed under the command of Andrew Jackson, who would go on to become the seventh President of the United States, these volunteers would play a crucial role throughout the war, especially during the Battle of New Orleans. Their gallantry and willingness to fight when called upon earned their home state a new nickname: “The Volunteer State.”
More than 200 years later, Tennesseans from every corner of the state continue to demonstrate why our home deserves its nickname. Through every major conflict of the 19th, 20th, and 21st century, Tennesseans have stood ready to answer the call when it’s sounded. They’ve deployed to every corner of the globe, from Europe to Southeast Asia to the Middle East.
Many did their duty and returned home safely. Many distinguished themselves in combat. Many were wounded. Many never came home at all.
Today, on Veterans Day 2021, we’re taking the time to celebrate the many Tennesseans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. We know that a simple “thank you” isn’t nearly enough to express the depth of gratitude we feel, but we hope that this serves as a reminder of the solemn pledge we at Nashville Public Library share: we’ll never forget you and what you’ve done for us.