On this day in history, October 21st, 1805, 219 years ago today,

On this day in history, October 21st, 1805, 219 years ago today, a man who preferred honor to
comfort, and duty to life, gave his life, for his country. The man was Lord Nelson, the half blind,
and one armed, protector of England.

Horatio Nelson was born during the age of enlightenment into a strict religious home. At 9
years of age his mother passed away, but her influence remained with him for the rest of his
life. At 12 years of age he left for sea where a fulfilling life of duty and adventure awaited him.
At 16 years old, while working in the East Indies, Horatio got very sick. He was so sick that he
was sent home to recover. His sickness was soon accompanied by severe despair and
depression. He thought it might be best to throw himself overboard and perish in the waves
rather than persevere. Then, suddenly, he began feeling very patriotic. He felt grateful to his
king and country. He said that his mind exulted in patriotism. He decided and declared, “I will
be a hero, and, confiding in Providence, I will brave every danger.

He spent the rest of his life staying true to this new conviction. Putting his trust in God he
braved every danger. Ever throwing himself into the thick of danger he was the ultimate hero.
Duty to king and country were more important to him than life itself. He fought in many battles
suffering many devastating hardships and injuries. He was known to disobey orders from his
superior officers. When they called to retreat he would forge ahead. On one occasion, while
fighting in Denmark, the chance of success looked grim. His superior’s gave the signal to turn
back. Lord Nelson did not want to retreat. Retreating was not in his nature. Instead he put his

telescope to his blind eye, and said that he couldn’t see the order to retreat. Defying all odds
he kept on fighting and won the battle. He was considered a patriot and a hero by all his
countrymen.

The last years of Lord Nelson’s life were spent in the Napoleonic wars. On this day in history in
1805, Lord Nelson made his last stand. On this day at the Battle of Trafalgar Lord Nelson
became immortalized. Being outnumbered, and knowing that defeat would mean the invasion,
and possible end of his country, he famously told his men, “England expects that every man will
do his duty!” It was a viscous fight, but by courage and tactful expertness, Lord Nelson turned
the tide of the battle his way.

A prayer that Lord Nelson once offered was recorded as saying, “May the great God, whom I
adore, enable me to fulfill the expectations of my country.” This is what he lived for, and this is
what he died for. As the battle was winding down Lord Nelson was found mortally wounded
and lying in his compatriots arms. Knowing that victory was forthcoming he uttered his life’s
final words. “Now I am satisfied, Thank God I have done my duty!’

Rend Petersen