On May 28, 1863, the new regiment marched onto a steamer and set sail for Port Royal, South Carolina. The unit saw action right away, taking part in a raid into Georgia and withstanding a Confederate attack near Charleston. On July 18, 1863, Shaw led a bold but doomed attack against Fort Wagner in which Shaw was killed and the 54th suffered heavy casualties.
The 54th was memorialized in the movie "Glory." By the Statehouse, in Boston, you'll find their bas relief memorial:
The 54th fought under less than ideal conditions, in pursuit of a perfect idea.
Memorial day.
This is for all you new people: I only have one rule. Everyone fights. No one quits. You don't do your job, I'll shoot you myself. You get me?
Rasczak
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