Joshua Chamberlain was a decorated Civil War leader, best known for his achievements during the Battle of Gettysburg, where he held Little Round Top against repeated Confederate assaults.

After his service in the U.S. Army, Chamberlain continued to serve his country as Governor of his home state of Maine from 1866 to 1869. Chamberlain returned from retirement and into public service in early 1880 as Maine was thrust into a state of turmoil over a disputed election. Chamberlain was summoned by executive order to restore order at the Maine State House, which had been occupied by a band of armed men. After arriving, he successfully averted an insurrection by peacefully dispersing the mob that had gathered at the state capitol.

His example as a citizen soldier who continued to promote and protect democratic values throughout his life serves as a model to veterans as we face the largest threat to representative democracy in generations.