Antietam: Illuminating film needs support

I have walked "The Cornfield" trail,  run a mile loop from the Visitors Center and along Smoketown Road at sunrise and traipsed through thick undergrowth in what used to be John Otto's 40-acre cornfield. But I have never seen what many believe is the ultimate Antietam experience: the annual illumination held at the battlefield since 1988.

On the first Saturday in December,  23,110 candles, one for every casualty that occurred during the Battle of  Antietam on Sept. 17, 1862, are lit by a dedicated group of volunteers. Friends have described the experience as surreal, spectacular and moving. In a documentary, filmmaker Mike Wicklein aims to tell the story of the illumination and  the stories of some of the men who fought at Antietam so long ago.

Tales of Connecticut men and boys who fought during the bloodiest day in American history are told on this thread on my blog. But many more stories have been pushed into the shadows, awaiting someone to shine a light on them. I hope to be part of this project. Wicklein, who has been visiting the battlefield since he was a kid, could use your support.

 Check out the video above or go here to see how you can help.