Listen to Willie Nelson Recite the ‘Victory or Death’ Letter

On March, 2,1836, Texas officially declared it's independence from Mexico. To honor this historic day, listen to Willie Nelson movingly recite William Barret Travis’ “Victory or Death” letter.

According to History.com, on February 24, Travis wrote a letter, which would later be reprinted in newspapers around the country and the world.

As the Mexicans surrounded the Alamo, William began writing for help. One of his messages stated, “We have 150 men and are determined to defend the Alamo to the last. Give us assistance.”

A company of Texas Rangers came to their aide. Thirty two men entered the Alamo on March 1, and were the only help William and his fellow solders would receive.

Here is his letter-

Commandancy of the The Alamo Bejar, February. 24th. 1836, To the People of Texas & All Americans in the World—Fellow Citizens & compatriots....'

 

I am besieged, by a thousand or more of the Mexicans under Santa Anna — I have sustained a continual Bombardment & cannonade for 24 hours & have not lost a man — The enemy has demanded a surrender at discretion, otherwise, the garrison are to be put to the sword, if the fort is taken — I have answered the demand with a cannon shot, & our flag still waves proudly from the walls — I shall never surrender or retreat. Then, I call on you in the name of Liberty, of patriotism & everything dear to the American character, to come to our aid, with all dispatch — The enemy is receiving reinforcements daily & will no doubt increase to three or four thousand in four or five days. If this call is neglected, I am determined to sustain myself as long as possible & die like a soldier who never forgets what is due to his own honor & that of his country —

 

Victory or Death.
William Barrett Travis.
Lt. Col. comdt.

 

P. S. The Lord is on our side — When the enemy appeared in sight we had not three bushels of corn — We have since found in deserted houses 80 or 90 bushels and got into the walls 20 or 30 head of Beeves.
Travis

As Mexican troops invaded the fort, William Travis was killed. His letter remains one of the most important parts of the written history of Texas. Travis's courage and leadership is remembered today and always. Listen to his letter brought to life by the iconic voice of Willie Nelson.