This commemorative ribbon was issued for the 54th Anniversary Reunion of the 49th New York Volunteer Infantry, held on June 29, 1915, on Chautauqua Lake, New York. The badge features a photographic image of Lieutenant Colonel George W. Johnson, a prominent officer in the regiment, who is depicted in his wartime uniform with arms crossed in a classic pose of dignified leadership. The 49th New York Infantry was organized in Buffalo and mustered into service in 1861, serving through to the close of the war in 1865. It was attached to the VI Corps of the Army of the Potomac and fought in some of the most pivotal battles of the Eastern Theater, including the Peninsula Campaign, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, the Wilderness, Spotsylvania, and the Siege of Petersburg. The regiment gained a reputation for its resilience and discipline under fire and played a vital role in many of the Union Army’s most hard-fought campaigns. Lieutenant Colonel George W. Johnson served with distinction and, like many veterans of the regiment, participated in postwar veterans' organizations and reunions that helped maintain bonds of camaraderie and collective memory. These reunions were often marked by ribbon badges like this one, which functioned both as souvenirs and symbols of shared sacrifice. This particular example, manufactured by the Keystone Badge Company of Reading, Pennsylvania, reflects the pride and nostalgia of Civil War veterans gathering to honor their past. The deep blue ribbon—signifying the Union Army—features silver text and a frayed lower edge, typical of reunion pieces from the early 20th century. A powerful piece of veteran culture, this artifact bridges the memory of wartime service with the aging fraternity of survivors who helped shape postwar American civic life. At VDG Militaria, we are dedicated to providing collectors with an exceptional selection of original military antiques. Our passion for history and commitment to authenticity ensure that every item we offer is thoroughly researched, accurately described, and meticulously photographed. Whether you are a seasoned collector or new to the world of militaria, our curated inventory includes a diverse range of artifacts from various periods and conflicts. From uniforms and insignia to medals and equipment, we aim to connect you with pieces that tell the stories of the past. Our expertise and attention to detail mean you can trust that every item you purchase is genuine and precisely represented. Customer satisfaction is our top priority, and we strive to make your collecting experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible. If you have any inquiries or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Using the Offer Feature We are pleased to offer a "Make an Offer" feature on our website, allowing you to negotiate the price of items that catch your eye. Once you submit an offer, expect an email from us shortly after. If your offer is accepted, the email will include a special payment link for your convenience. Please check your spam folder if you have strict email filters. We promise to respond to all offers as quickly as possible. If you do not hear from us within one business day, feel free to reach out directly via phone or text at the contact information below to ensure your request is promptly addressed. Contact Us For the fastest response, we recommend reaching out via email or text. We typically reply to emails and text messages the quickest. 📧 Email: vdgmilitaria@yahoo.com
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