Ripon College - Crimson Yearbook (Ripon, WI)

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 LANE LIBRARY RIPON COLLEGE Ripon, Wisconsin Ripon's Sacrifice SINCE the last Crimson was submitted to its readers our nation has witnessed the most appalling event in her history. For nigh three years did we escape the horrible clutches of war. But when we clearly saw- that its evil fangs struck at the sacred foundation of our country its honor and integrity a mighty wave of just indignation swept our land, leaving the sword unsheathed, with the light of heaven radiant on its blade. Once more the spirit of 7(5 is revived. The spirit that conceived our independence, that opened the gates of a mighty nation, w'ithin whose portals the oppressed of every people have found protection. The spirit that heard the crack of the lash descending upon the defenseless slave hears today the cry of humanity struggling under the crushing heel of militarism. What winder, then, that the present is witnessing the energies of this spirit diverted into channels that will ultimately mean the liberation of all of the peoples of the globe. Clad in the invincible armor of a democracy awakened to its wmrld possibility, its decision resting upon the impregnable foundation of justice and honor, our youths are today waving our Hag, the emblem of an unbroken glory, in the smoke-reeking atmosphere of Europe. Caught in this profound spirit, our Alma Mater, with glistening eyes, vet with a proud heart, has watched the cream of the flock leaving the fold. Spurning fortune and fame, they plunged into the deadly night of war when the dawn of success beckoned them in the distant horizon. Already two of them have paid the price of freedom. They have joined the golden constellation that stands emblazoned on the field of human liberty. But though dead, yet shall they live in the memory of their Alma Mater, and above all in the emancipated spirit of humanity. rage 3