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Cochran-Wicker Bill Introduced to Authorize Expansion of Vicksburg National Military Park

Legislation authorizing the expansion of the Vicksburg National Military Park in Claiborne and Hinds counties has been introduced by U.S. Senator Thad Cochran, with U.S. Senator Roger Wicker as a primary cosponsor.

The Champion Hill, Port Gibson and Raymond Battlefield Addition Act (S.3952) would authorize the National Park Service (NPS) to acquire—through voluntary sale, donation or exchange—approximately 10,000 acres of property determined to be significant to the preservation of historic battlefield sites.

“The Vicksburg Campaign is significant because it proved pivotal to the outcome of the Civil War. It represents an important moment in Mississippi history,” Cochran said. “Interest in protecting battlefield sites is heightened as the nation prepares for the 150th anniversary of the start of that war. This legislation would allow new protections for sites in Mississippi, and I hope it can be enacted soon with broad support.”...
Read entire article at Civil War Interactive