Meaning: The quote "Let no vandalism of avarice or neglect, no ravages of time, testify to the present or to the coming generations, that we have forgotten, as a people, the cost of a free and undivided Republic" is a powerful statement by John A. Logan, a Union general in the American Civil War and a politician. This quote reflects Logan's belief in the importance of preserving the memory and sacrifices made for the establishment and maintenance of a free and united nation.

John A. Logan was a prominent figure during a tumultuous period in American history, and his words carry significant weight in the context of the Civil War and its aftermath. As a soldier who fought for the Union cause, Logan witnessed firsthand the human cost of preserving the United States as a single, undivided nation. His experiences on the battlefield and in the political arena shaped his understanding of the sacrifices required to maintain a free and unified republic.

In this quote, Logan cautions against the destructive forces of avarice and neglect, emphasizing the need to protect and honor the legacy of those who fought for the nation's unity and freedom. The mention of "vandalism of avarice" alludes to the greed and self-interest that can lead to the deterioration of national values and the disregard for the sacrifices made by previous generations. Similarly, the reference to the "ravages of time" highlights the passage of history and the potential for the memory of these sacrifices to fade over generations if not actively preserved and commemorated.

Logan's call to "let no vandalism of avarice or neglect, no ravages of time, testify" serves as a rallying cry for the collective responsibility of the American people to safeguard the memory of the nation's past struggles and triumphs. He urges citizens to ensure that future generations are not deprived of the knowledge of the cost paid for the freedoms and unity enjoyed in the present.

The phrase "we have forgotten, as a people, the cost of a free and undivided Republic" underscores the significance of collective national memory and the dangers of neglecting or overlooking the sacrifices made for the country's unity and freedom. Logan's words emphasize the need for ongoing remembrance and reverence for the sacrifices of soldiers, leaders, and citizens who contributed to the preservation of the republic.

In conclusion, John A. Logan's quote resonates as a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving and honoring the memory of the sacrifices made for the United States as a free and undivided nation. His words serve as a timeless plea to guard against the erosion of national values and the neglect of the profound cost of maintaining a united republic. By heeding Logan's call, individuals and communities can contribute to the enduring remembrance of the nation's history and the reverence for those who dedicated their lives to the cause of a free and undivided Republic.