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After Action Reports

Gentlemen, I have the honor of filing the official report concerning the activities of the 27th North Carolina Troops, Co. D on May 7th, 8th and 9th 2004 near Spotsylvania Courthouse, Virginia.

Most of the troops arrived during the early afternoon of the 7th and began setting up camp. The skies were clear and it was a bit warm for early May in Virginia. Around 6:00 p.m. the sky began to darken to the west, and the temperature dropped a bit. Before long a warning circulated through the camp that severe weather would be upon us within the next ten minutes. Before we knew it, winds reaching sixty miles per hour began to race through camp, followed by heavy rain and severe lightning. Tents fell, debris flew through the air, and all most of us could do was try and hang on to our fallen tents in a futile attempt to keep some of our possessions dry. This continued for about thirty minutes before the winds began to subside and the rain turned into a steady drizzle. Rain and lightning continued until around 8:00 p.m. After the storm passed, we began to try and resurrect camp, and dry out our drenched equipment. There were a few injuries associated with falling tent poles, but everyone survived. Some tents were irreparably damaged, and many a soldier spent the night in wet clothes, under wet blankets. This was, without a doubt, the most severe, and dangerous weather I have seen in 10 years of reenacting.

 Saturday dawned with clear blue skies and pleasant temperatures. By late morning the camp was dry and back to normal, except for Private Bass’s laundry hanging from the company fly. Around noon the officers and NCOs inspected the trenches where an afternoon attack was expected. It was determined that the far left of the trenches needed work, and the battalions were formed and marched to the trenches. Our company was designated 1st Company, and commanded by Captain Gordon and 1st Lt. Harry. Our Regiment was commanded by Colonel Potts and our Wing commanded by Major Lambert. After a short drill, the men began strengthening the trenches. When the trenches were deemed ready, we marched back to camp and were dismissed.

 At 4:00 p-.m. we fell back in, marched to the trenches and prepared for an assault. We did not have long to wait. A large number of Federal troops appeared on our front and moved swiftly to the trenches. We were overwhelmed by their numbers and the ferocity of their attack and were forced from the trenches back into nearby woods. With our backs to the river we had no choice but to reform and attack, or perish. The Regiment was reformed, though by now our numbers were greatly diminished by casualties and desertions. Unfortunately, two of our own veterans were among those who broke and ran as the Federals overwhelmed our defenses. Decorum and respect for their prior bravery prohibits me from naming these two former NCOs who shamelessly ran from the enemy. The enemy, having failed to reinforce their lines, was forced from the trenches by our counterattack and our lines were reestablished.

We were pulled from the lines and were able to go back to camp for some food and rest. At 4:00 a.m. on Sunday we were ordered back into line in our former position on the left. Before the sun came up we detected some movement on the right. We saw figures moving silently towards the trenches and as there were no sounds of alarm from our lines, thought it must be Confederate skirmishers being relieved. To our surprise and horror, large lines of men in blue, stacked in columns of companies appeared through the fog behind the shadowy figures. As the Federal skirmishers reached our lines, shouts of alarm erupted and guns began to fire. Unfortunately, most of the Confederates had loaded their weapons the night before, and a heavy dew had moistened the powder, making their muskets inoperable. All we heard we was the sharp crack of percussion caps, and not the heavy report of musket fire.  We looked on helplessly as Confederates broke and ran from the trenches. The surging blue line rang with cheers and the day seemed lost. Suddenly, from our left, a line gray clad troops appeared and moved silently along our rear, towards the break in our lines. Our line erupted in loud cheers as we watched our comrades smash into the right of the Union line, and roll it up like a wet blanket. The Yanks were forced back across the trenches, and once again our lines were intact. Though we had not fired a shot, what we had heard and witnessed made for a most satisfactory morning.

By 9:00 a.m. the event was over and most of us began to break camp and leave. I would like to thank each of you who attended. This will be an event long remembered and talked about around the campfires. From this day forward there are two kinds of reenactors, those who were there, and those who were not. I am glad to be counted among the former. While the storm was dangerous, those who were there will always share the bond of having survived it. The beautiful trenches constructed for us, and the sight of Union troops moving silently and swiftly through the fog, chasing our own men from the works were alone worth the trip. I have seen few things like it over the past ten years. I think all who made the trip will agree.

A meeting of the Wyse Fork Historical Society was held Saturday evening. Todd Kornegay was voted in as a new member. I’m sure I speak for all in welcoming him to the 27th. Also, we voted to supply the labor to restore the Texas monument at Bentonville. Look for further notices concerning the date and time for this project.

Special commendations for Cpl. Laurent for his tireless work with loaner gear, and for helping everyone set up camp, to Sgt. Craddock who continues to show why he is the best NCO in the Regiment and to Privates Bass and Tripp for supplying me with breakfast on Sunday morning. If you missed this event, be sure to ask Mo about his trip to the Confederate Yankee.

 Respectfully Submitted

1st Lt. Harry

Muster Roll 

Battalion Officers

General Taylor

Colonel Gowen

Major Stein

Major  Lambert

27th NCT

1st Lt Harry

1st Sgt. Craddock

Cpl. Creech

Cpl. Laurent

Privates

Andy Allen

Anthony Allen

Mo Bass

Ellis Braswell

Diego Castro

Reid Hodges

Todd Kornegay

Paul Laurent

Bruce Simmons

Kendall Smith

Kenny Smith

Andy Tripp

Civilian

Crystal Kornegay

Frankie Laurent

Rhonda Braswell

Hunt Medlin

Jennifer Simmons

Jane Taylor

Maryanne Tripp

Pat Stein

Headquarters, Raleigh, NC

Laurel Hill, near Ararat, Virginia

Official Report of Co. D, 27th NC Troops

1st Sgt. Bryan Craddock

Gentlemen,

I have the honor of reporting on the activities and heroic actions of Co. D, 27th NCT at Laurel Hill, VA during the weekend of Oct. 3-5, 2003. As you know, this particular site is the birthplace and boyhood home of our beloved J.E.B. Stuart. A beautiful place anytime of year, Laurel Hill presented itself as the perfect place to engage the enemy. Woods, open fields, creeks, hollows, and dirt roads all added to the battle scenarios on this fine autumn weekend.

The troops began arriving on site by 2 pm. on Friday and had the entire camp in operation before dark - all except for Corporal Creech and his wife, who had a very long journey from the area just north of Tuckahoe Swamp. We all know they don't make wagons like they used to! Actually, most of the "Braves" had a tough time finding the event site. About the only food cooked in camp that evening was an apple cobbler - and what a nice treat that was. The kitchen area must have been attractive to Sgt. Sumrell and Pvt. Kratzer because their demonstration of dance steps and bear hugs came to a "smashing" end there.

After a chilly night in camp, Saturday morning offered the troops a chance to warm up with a 9 am. morning parade, followed by a short company drill as well as a battalion drill - all in preparation for the 1:30 pm. battle. Co. D, 27th NCT served as 1st company in the battalion for the event, and were pleased to join with elements of the 50th NCT "Moore Sharpshooters," 18th VA, and a straggler from the 1st NC Vols. Commanding the company was 1st Lt. Leonard Austin of the 18th VA, and the balance of the NCOs were from Co. D, 27th NCT. Overall Confederate commander was John Minto, who proudly led his troops into battle both days. (He must be good, because I lived to write this report!)

Troops formed up for battle just after noon on Saturday, after scouts reported seeing Federal skirmishers crossing a bridge in the valley. Just as the Confederates crested the hill, the fight was on.  The Yankees poured onto the field, but were forced back into the woods. A beautifully executed "on the right by files into line" movement was one highlight once the 27th hit the dirt road. After another attempt to engage the Rebs on the high ground, the Yanks began to melt before withering fire. Before long, the Yanks had retreated to a position near a road at the woodline, and Taps was sounded to end the event. The 27th, upon returning to camp, cleaned weapons and relaxed before getting their chance to "dig in" at the chow line. The troops were treated to a nice supper of baked ham, beans, slaw, rolls, cake, and drinks by the event organizers. Rumor has it that a new hair-do was seen in camp, but evidence was hard to come by..... well, perhaps a photo does exist.....we'll see. As darkness fell, a couple of jack-o-lanterns made their appearance in camp, and soon began to make their way to other areas. A night skirmish broke out in the valley when some Federals again tried to assault the hill, and Pvt. Reid Hodges joined Capt. Paul Luzier's unit to "see the elephant." (I guess you can see one at night, right Reid?)

As the battle wound down, the Saturday night dance started at the main activity tent. Whooping and hollering were heard for miles, as an old-time band provided the music for the event that was attended by about 100 soldiers and their partners.

Another Saturday evening event was a torchlight trail called "The Horrors of War," and members of the 27th who helped out were Maj. James Stine, David and Ashleigh Kimmons, as well as Paul Laurent. Even after having his leg amputated that night, Paul was able to participate in the battle that was to come on Sunday - miracles of modern medicine, I guess.

The Confederate army didn't have the success that it had the previous day, as the Yanks held the high ground during the Sunday battle. As the Rebs left the road, they quickly executed "by company into line" and began to engage the enemy. Casualties quickly mounted, and after a third charge, Col. Minto was forced to pull his troops from the fray. After Taps was sounded, the troops formed up to clear weapons and parade in front of the spectators to receive their battle ribbons signed by J.E.B. Stuart IV.

Upon returning to camp, the Tuckahoe Braves struck the tents and headed for home after one last visit to sutler row. Many thanks to the host unit, the 21st NCT, for helping host a wonderful event. A muster for the event follows:

Division Staff:

Maj. James Stine

Co. D, 27th NCT NCOs:

1st Sgt. Bryan Craddock

2nd Sgt. Jamie Sumrell

1st Cpl. Leslie Creech

2nd Cpl. Richard Laurent

Rank and File:

Diego Castro

Ashleigh Kimmons

David Kimmons

Josh Kohler

Benjamin Kratzer

Paul Laurent

Bobby Mozingo

Kenny Smith

Recruits:

Reid Hodges

Civilians:

Debbie Creech

Bill Hoover

Judy Hoover

Frankie Laurent

Karen Mozingo

Pat Stine

Respectfully submitted,

1st Sgt. Bryan Craddock

D27NCT

Ballard's Crossing - August 2003

Headquarters, Raleigh, NC 8-25-03
Ballard's Crossing 8-23-03 Bentonville, NC
Official Report of Co. D 27th NC Troops
1st. Lt. Dean Harry

Gentlemen- I have the honor of reporting on the activities of the 27th North Carolina at Bentonville, NC on Aug. 23rd, 2003. As most of you know, this engagement bears the official name of Ballard's Crossing, in recognition of the birthday of the honorable Charles Ballard.  Charles was kind enough to bring brownies and Brunswick stew to his own party. Regretfully, the wagon load of presents intended to be presented to Charles must have been captured by the Yankee cavalry patrol rumored to be operating nearby. Further investigation will be required. Also, the pig Bruce intended to cook must have been carried off by those black-hearted invaders as well. Fortunately for Private Smith, the Widow Smithfield was operating a kitchen nearby in Newton Grove, so he did not have to endure a day without pig.

This event was well attended, both by members of the 27th, and the public. We did our usual drill and firing demonstrations, and assisted in artillery demonstrations as well.  Mo Bass and Andy Tripp did their usual fantastic job with uniform and equipment talks.  Channel 14 news and the Goldsboro paper were there all morning.  We got a nice report on Channel 14.  Ya'll sure looked purty in those uniforms.

My thanks to everyone who participated in the drill and firing demonstrations.  1st Sgt. Craddock did his usual exemplary work.  Cpls. Creech and Laurent took their turns at leading the company as well.  Both did a fine job, though they might admit, it's not as easy as it looks.  Overall, our performance was good, though we still need to work on the details of the Manual of Arms.  I encourage each member to get a copy of Hardee's and study the School of the Soldier section.  I would also ask each member to review our approved uniform and equipment standards.  Remember gentlemen, we represent a North Carolina Quartermaster equipped company 1862-1865.  This is who we are and when one joins our unit, these are the standards one promises to uphold.

Sgt, Craddock and Private Laurent were a big musical hit, and proved they have plenty of talent.  Perhaps it's time we tried to make music part of our demonstration.

On a more serious note, we did have an unfortunate safety violation Saturday. For future reference, swords are not to be removed from scabbards on state sites and running with any kind of blade exposed is a serious safety violation.  Remember gentlemen, safety first.  We are only an accident away from not being able to visit sites like Bentonville.

Thanks again to all who attended. They are listed below.

Col. Taylor
Major Gowen
1st Lt. Harry
2nd Lt. Butler
1st Sgt. Craddock
Cpl. Creech
Cpl. Laurent

Pvts.

Mo Bass
Carl Cason
Reid Hodges
Bill Hook
Ashleigh Kimmons
David Kimmons
Benjamin Kratzer
Paul Laurent
Bob Mozingo
Bruce Simmons
James Stroud
Tyler Stroud
Kenneth Smith
Jim Taylor
Andy Tripp

Civilian
Frankie Laurent

Mary Ann Tripp
Nikki Lowe
Rachel Hook
Jennifer Simmons
 

1st Sgt. Bryan Craddock

Co. D, 27th North Carolina Troops

Headquarters, Raleigh, N.C.

12 August, '03

Gentlemen:

I have the honor of reporting on the actions of Co. D, 27th NCT while in the vicinity of Gettysburg, Pa. during the period of August 7-10, 2003.  A large contingent of Confederate troops began to converge on the Redding farm just outside the town of Gettysburg at various times during the week. Most of the Tuckahoe Braves' were in place and ready for action by Thursday evening, with only a few to arrive on Friday. Rumor has it that even Gen. Tolar, sporting some kind of wild headdress, greeted many troops as they arrived. The sprawling site with ample firewood piles, water, and well maintained roads was well suited for large camps, drilling areas, and

battlefields. The troops of Co. D enjoyed the short walk over the hill to the sutler area, where much time

was spent by those "fresh fish" who needed supplies and victuals.

Warm weather and high humidity was the order of the day, but our troops were well hydrated and performed

very well in the adverse conditions. Several members were able to bring bananas and other fruits to help

with the potassium depletion as well. As expected, shade was hard to come by, but with the addition of a

9X12 foot canvas fly (thanks to the Laurent family), everyone was able to avoid severe sunburn. On a couple of occasions, a quick rain shower helped break the heat's grip, and allowed for a cool-down.   Considering that this event was held in early August, most of the participants seemed pleased with the weather.

Elements of the 27th combined forces with our friends of the 1st NC Vols/11th NC Troops to form the far left

company in the battalion. Yes, we were indeed the "end of the line" at Gettysburg. The company fielded just over 30 men for the Friday and Sunday battle, and slightly less than that number for the Saturday assault. Sgt. Craddock served as company commander for the event and Don Torrence served as First Sergeant, with Corporals Creech and Laurent maintaining their usual positions in the ranks. 2nd Sergeant Sumrell did a fine job as the battalion's left guide. (No, Jamie.... you can't keep that little flag!)  A short company drill and battalion drill was held Friday morning.  Pvts. Bingham and Smith served in the color guard at that time. Friday's 6 pm. battle involved a long forced march to the staging area, and when the battle began, we marched another half mile in the woods just to make our entrance onto the battlefield. Just as we came onto line, a light rain began to fall and that must have inspired the Confederate forces to rapidly push the Yanks back to the creek. Although the company was forced into the creek on the left, we almost captured a large group of tired Federals. Just as the battle ended, an excited horse decided to drop his passenger to the turf, prompting a call for the medics. Weapons were cleared and we quickly marched back to camp. The troops were checked for injuries, and it was discovered that Pvt. Paul Laurent had the longest "battle scar." Too bad it was on his back!

Saturday's 4 pm. battle was perhaps the best of the weekend for our company. The staging area allowed us to witness the beginning of the battle, and as we took the field we could actually feel the heat and dirt from exploding ground charges. As we approached the enemy, most of the battalion took over 30 percent

casualties. Nice job guys! I guess we weren't wearing the bullet proof vests like the bluecoats, right? One nice moment was noted when we exited the battlefield and a young lady pushed her way through the crowd to thank us for being here, and she had tears streaming down her face. After returning to camp, many members of the 27th made the trek into town to forage for food at one of the local taverns and take a ghost walk at 10:30 pm. No "haints" were seen however, but Pvt. Anthony Allen's spirit detector did activate several times. Hmmmmm.

Earlier in the afternoon, the "shampoo girl," Debbie Creech, was applauded for offering to cool down the

troops by giving cold water shampoos after Saturday's battle. How wonderful they were! Thanks Debbie. We

must also thank Pvt. Will 'Ronald' Rumsey for allowing many Braves' to use his Gold Bond medicated body

powder.  Nuff said! We won't be caught without it again. Later that night, many members made their way

to the dance, and for some, a little T.I.C.H. ceremony awaited them in one corner of the ANV camp. I guess

the Pennsylvania police didn't understand the meaning of the ceremony, because they raided the festivities

before its conclusion. After water was poured on the fire, the field mice' and new inductees were quickly

told to head back to camp.  One award for bravery is to be given out to Pvt. Kenny Smith, who after buying some nice Robert Land brogans actually did take the plunge into the foot deep creek as we took part in Pickett's charge on Sunday. Bets and wagering were rampant concerning the possibility of Pvt. Smith beating a hasty retreat as we approached the muddy water. (Oh well, I guess Sgt. Sumrell will owe someone a box of caps on that one.) After fording the stream, the battalion quickly reformed and executed a nice left wheel to get into the fray.  After marching through a burning portion of the field, casualties started to mount. The Yankee line held

firm behind the stone wall, but Pvts. Braswell and Allen (among others) did make it to the wall. Reports of them going too far are being discounted at this time.

The last battle being over, the troops returned home to reflect on a wonderful event. Our thanks go out to acting Colonel Bryan O'Neil and his staff for leading our troops. As usual, it was nice to see Tudd Dean's Commissary there also - nice grub and nice folks! Our congratulations go out to our own Doc Stine for being in charge of all Confederate medical personnel for this event. And a big thank you goes out to our friends in the 1st/11th for helping us form a tight unit for the weekend. It is a pleasure to serve with you guys!

A muster for the event follows:

Division Staff:

Major James Stine

Co. D, 27th NCT NCOs:

1st Sgt. Bryan Craddock

2nd Sgt. Jamie Sumrell

1st Cpl. Leslie Creech

2nd Cpl. Richard Laurent

Privates:

Andy Allen

Anthony Allen

Chris Bingham

Ellis Braswell

Benjamin Kratzer

Paul Laurent

Alan San Filippo

Kenny Smith

Recruits:

Al San Filippo

Alex San Filippo

Civilians/Camp followers:

Rhonda Braswell and son, Hunter

Debbie Creech

Alyssa Holland

Bill Hoover

Judy Hoover

Frankie Laurent

Pat Stine

(and special friend Frank E. Laurent in a very

attractive slouch hat)

1st Sgt. Bryan Craddock

Co. D, 27th North Carolina Troops

Headquarters, Raleigh, N.C.

28, July, '03

Gentlemen:

I have the honor of reporting on the actions of the members of Co. D, 27th NCT while in garrison at Fort

Macon on July 26-27, 2003.  Four members of the unit arrived Friday evening in time to lay out bed rolls in one of the fort's casemates. The troops were greeted by the usual warm, muggy conditions and also by the "mosquito brigade."  The combined troops, consisting of elements of the 1st NC Vols, 7th NC, 26th NC, and the 27th NC assembled at 9:30 am. on Saturday for weapons inspection and shortly thereafter marched on the fort to demand surrender of the same. Finding little resistance, the North Carolina troops proceeded toward the parade ground for a short marching and firing drill. Sgt. Alexander, the fort's caretaker, was allowed to leave the fort with his wife.  Members of Co. D, 27th NCT braved scorching sun and drenching humidity as they guarded the fort. A welcomed break at high noon provided a chance for the men to eat some fried fish, hushpuppies, cole slaw, and potato salad.  After more guard duty, Sgt. Craddock organized a uniform and knapsack presentation for the fort's visitors at 2 pm.   After another short drill, Federal troops attacked from the southeast, and pressed the garrisoned Confederate troops. Having the benefits offered by the masonry fort, the "locals" beat back the Union assault. The day was won! 

Sunday dawned warm and humid, but the addition of a nice breeze allowed the troops to enjoy the activities

of the day. The noon meal of ham, bread, cucumbers, and tomatoes gave the men the energy needed for

additional drill and demonstrations until another group of Federals again tried their luck at taking control of the fort at 3 pm. This time, the "bluebellies" made their way into the moat, only to be trapped. Again, the fort remained in good hands.   Just WHEN will those Yanks outsmart Lts. Gordon and Berg?

The activities for the weekend ended with an artillery demonstration conducted by our host unit, the 1st NC

Vols. Exhausted, the brave members of Co. D, 27th NCT headed home to be with their families and friends.

Reports of seeing Pvts. Anthony Allen and Josh Allen roaming the local beaches are being investigated!

We would like to express our appreciation to our friends in the 1st NC Vols./11th NCT for their hospitality.

A muster for the event follows:

1st Sgt. Craddock

1st Cpl. Creech

Privates:

Andy Allen

Benjamin Kratzer

Bob Mozingo

Kendall Smith

Kenny Smith

James Stroud

Respectfully submitted,

Bryan Craddock, 1st Sgt., D27NCT

Official Report-  Co. D. 27th North Carolina Troops
School of the Soldier Kinston, NC 6/21/03
Headquarters Raleigh, NC 6/23/03
1st Lt. Dean Harry


Gentlemen: I have the honor of submitting the official report of the 27th North Carolina's School of the Soldier held on Saturday, June 21, 2003, at Creech's Farm, Kinston, NC.

A few of the troops arrived Friday evening, the rest on Saturday morning. Instruction began around 9:00 a.m. We first practiced the proper method of forming the company, with each NCO taking turns commanding the formation. The company was then broken into squads which were instructed in the manual of arms by 2nd Sgt. Sumrell and Corporals Creech and Laurent. Lt. Harry and 1st Sgt. Craddock observed this instruction.

After a brief break the company was reformed and marched a short distance in order to practice facings, marching by the flank, wheeling, company into line and on the right by file into line. Lt. Harry commanded the company. Captain Taylor observed the drill.

The company then broke for lunch, after which Lt. Harry observed Sgts Craddock and Sumrell while they drilled the company in loading and firing.

A company meeting was held after the drill instruction. Three new members were voted into the company: Kenny Smith, Kendall Smith and Josh Kohler. I know the entire unit joins me in welcoming these new men to the 27th.

Captain Taylor spoke briefly on prior research regarding removing the blue finish from Enfield muskets, and reminding us that the uniform committee guidelines require the finish to be removed.

Leslie Creech invited all members of the 27th to participate in a July 4th living history in downtown Kinston. Please contact Leslie for details.

Once again, those that attended this event had a great time. Those that couldn't make it missed out on some great instruction and a good time. Sgt. Sumrell's dog Mars provided great entertainment, digging for relics and snatching a sausage or two from those who let their guard drop while eating. (Better luck next time Stephen)

Also, a special thanks to Leslie Creech for allowing us the use of his property.

A muster for the event follows this report.

Respectfully Submitted,

1st Lt. Dean Harry

Col. Donny Taylor
Major Jeff Gowen
1st. Lt. Dean Harry
1st Sgt. Bryan Craddock
2nd Sgt. James Sumrell
1st Cpl. Leslie Creech
2nd. Cpl. Richard Laurent

Privates
Ellis Braswell
Josh Kohler
Benjamin Kratzer
Paul Laurent
Bob Mozingo
Bruce Simmons
Kendall Smith
Kenny Smith
James Stroud

Recruit
Bill Hook (Stephen and Rachel)
 

Fort Pocahontas - May 2003

1st Sgt. Bryan Craddock

Co. D, 27th NC Troops

Headquarters, Raleigh, NC

19 May, '03

Gentlemen:

I have the honor of reporting on the activities of our brave Co. D, 27th N.C. Troops while engaged in the area of Wilson's Wharf and Fort Pocahontas, Virginia on May 16-18, 2003.  Members of the 27th N.C., combined with seven soldiers from the 1st N.C. Volunteers/11th N.C. Troops, set up camp on the banks of the James River on the afternoon of the 16th and sent out a scouting party to determine the quality of sutlers, "sinks," commissaries, and wood piles. After seeing Tudd Dean's "Eatery," we felt right at home, and returned to complete the task of setting up camp. The late arrival of Corporal Laurent (and family) was welcomed news to several new recruits, as they had no "adequate" clothing until that time. Whew!

A Friday evening officer's meeting was attended by Sgt. Craddock and Corporal John Gay, and it was decided that Sgt. Craddock would command the company for the weekend against a relatively large contingent of Federals - many of whom made the journey from Pennsylvania. Saturday morning reports were turned in and the company formed for morning parade at 8:30 am., followed by a short battalion and company drill.  Luckily, the skirmish drill would prove to be welcomed since our wing of the battalion was sent into the battle right off the bat. The troops performed very well as skirmishers, suffering only 3 casualties after the first few minutes. Pvt. Will "Ronald" Rumsey of the 1st N.C. was cut down by a Yankee bullet early on, and was left on the field. The leap-frog tactics of the galla