The War of the Rebellion Volume 11, PT. 3; A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1902 Excerpt: ...immediately opened a heavy, galling, and concentrated fire of musketry and artillery upon both wings for one hour, and, supposing they had driven us from our position, they again began their work on the bridges; but as soon as we discovered them at work, we renewed the attack and drove them pell-mell from the bridges. They made nine desperate attempts to finish their bridges, but were severely punished and promptly repulsed at every attempt. They used their artillery incessantly with a heavy detachment of sharpshooters for twelve hours, we holding our position firmly the whole time, until about 4.30 p. m., when they increased their artillery and infantry, and, their batteries becoming so numerous and concentrated wo could not use our rifles, being deprived of all protection, we were compelled to fall back to Caroline street, and from there were ordered from town. Having to abandon my position on the left, believing Captain Govan still holding the lower bridge, and knowing the enemy to have crossed, I immediately dispatched a courier to notify him to fall back, fearing he would be taken. He rendered me very valuable assistance, and held his position firmly and with great gallantry and unusual firmuess, supported by a part of the gallant Eighteenth Mississippi Regiment, composed of Companies A, I, and K. Lieutenant William Ratliff deserves special notice for his able assistance to Captain Govan. I call your attention especially to the gallant conduct of Lieut. W. R. Oursler, commanding Company F. Much credit is due to Lieut. G. Ed. Thurmond, Company B, acting adjutant, for his promptness, coolness, and etficiency in face of dauger. Lieutenant Philip Sweeny, of Company D, deserves much credit for promptness and etficiency. Capt. G. R. Cherry, with his gallant ...