Fight the War

Strategic Turn 2

May 1861

 

Richmond Rag

 

Sources within the Northern Capital have informed this reporter that the Aggressor Leaders have decided against prisoner exchanges! In yet another inhuman act of barbarity, they are even threatening to execute the 406 Virginia Patriots their forces captured during their recent inglorious defeat at Manassas Virginia. Obviously, honor has no place in their prosecution of their unjust attempt to subjugate our righteous and just cause. Vastly routed at both Louisville, where they suffered casualties of over 5000 men, compared with our loss of less than 100 Southern Martyrs, and Harper's Ferry, where their forces were routed from the field with losses totaling nearly 7000 men, their forces are hanging on by a thread near Manassas, having been soundly defeated by our glorious Southern arms. It is likely only a matter of time before Generals Huffman and Whitehead force their surrender and march into Washington to end their futile efforts at our subjugation! It is this completely unbiased editors opinion, that if the Southern Patriots held by the Northern Government, are murdered in cold blood, our honorable and just Leadership will be forced to execute an equal or greater number of the cowardly Northern invaders who surrendered en mass with very little resistance during the recent battles all won by our glorious defenders of Southern Independence. Let us hope we are not forced to these extreme measures! The choice is in their hands on this matter!

 

The President has declined to exchange prisoners with the traitors in Richmond. We regard our soldiers as agents of the government, illegally held while carrying out their duty in suppressing rebellion. Their captors and gaolers will suffer the full penalty of the law when the rebellion has been crushed.

 

Rebels captured by us are common criminals, and we would no more think of releasing them than we would any other felon.

 

By order

President Simon Macbeth

 

Guess I will have to capture the AoP and see if I can trade it for my cavalry regiment.

 

Gen. Whitehead

Army of Northern Virginia

 

Gentlemen,

All orders came in, and I immediately executed the turn. Five battles have been generated this turn May 1861....The conflict between Generals Love (U) and Whitehead (C) will continue at Manassas. General Huffman (C)has marched his Army of the Valley to Washington, and will be assaulting General Passmore (U). General Malone (U) has marched in and retaken Harper's Ferry without opposition after the Confederates marched on Washington thereby cutting his supply line and possible route of retreat.

General Letus (U) has taken command of General Borling's army in Cincinnati and marched back to Louisville to renew the assault on General Weir's (C)troops defending that place. Meanwhile General Golen has also marched from Cincinnati and taken Lexington, Ky. without opposition from Confederate forces.

Both Generals Schlitte (U) and Shannon (C) decided to take the offensive in their front and will fight a meeting engagement somewhere between Fort Donelson and Paducah. Meanwhile General Pinkham (C) has marched to Paducah from Memphis in what was evidently intended to be a 2 pronged offensive against the city. General Shannon has been intercepted to spoil that. General Pinkham will now assault the city held by the forces under General Weirman (U), who must hold that city in order to protect General Schlitte's supply line and line of retreat.

So we have a rather complicated turn, that has placed 2 armies, one on each side in great possible peril. I will be in touch with all of you regarding troop dispositions and orders of march. I would also request that those of you that have not done so send me your initiative requests at this time. I will send out a mass email to all of you regarding this. Regards, Hank

 

Just a quick update.....Yankees are attacking at Manassas....Col. Carnot Posey has been wounded defending there....At Paducah, the van of the Confederate Cavalry was ambushed and bloodily repulsed....no other action to report....At Louisville, fighting has been toe to toe and bloody....the Union 1st Minn. Regt. under Sanborn has been forced to surrender....At Washington, the 14th Wisconsin Cavalry under Col. Stephen Weed suffered a similar fate....No serious fighting as of yet there though....Somewhere between Ft Donelson and Paducah, a meeting engagement is extremely twisted and confused...casualties are heavy on both sides, 6 of the Confederates guns have been captured....the outcome is in serious doubt in all of these affairs....Regards, Hank

 

Richmond Rag

 

Irwin McDowell Killed!!!!!!!!!!! Rob Love Seriously Wounded!!!!!!!!

 

In heavy fighting in and around Mannassas Virginia, Corp. Commander Irwin McDowell fell dead near Poplar Ford while leading an attack near there. Shortly thereafter, General Rob Love, led an attack accross the ford at the Old Warrenton, Alexandria and Washington Road. He led his troops in a successful charge against fortified positions, while outnumbered, and successfully drove them back. The Confederates, however, quickly massed a counterassault which retook the position lost. It was during this assault that General Love was shot from his horse, and quickly removed to the rear. With McDowell previously felled, this reporter awaits word of who will take command of the Army of the Potomic!!!!!

 

Our office was deeply saddened to hear of General Love's wounds. We understand that his injuries, although serious, are not life-threatening, and that he will be able to return to duty within 6 months.

 

Meanwhile, we require a commander to take over the army of the Potomac. Commanders Kaulbars and Howie have previously indicated that they are available. Please will either of them, or anyone else who considers himself competent, contact us as soon as maybe.

 

President Simon Macbeth

 

(Ole Abe probably a bit more worried about Gen. Huffman and the Army of the Shenandoah having a parade down Pennsylvania Avenue than the ANV right now.)

 

I don't think General Huffman is going to be parading down the Avenue but he may be running down it.

 

It's shaping up to be a great battle. General Passmore and General Banks have these Green recruits looking sharp and ready to show what they can do.  General Huffman you don't really think we would use Green soldiers to cover our Capital do you?

 

Lieutenant General Willie "Rebels Bane" Passmore

Army of the Potomac AC

Willie Passmore

 

"General Passmore and General Banks have these Green recruits looking sharpe and ready to show what they can do."

 

At first I thought your boys in Blue were simply marching and counter marching, but I realize you are getting their muscles limbered up for a mad dash toward the Potomac bridges and safety.

 

Indeed, it should be interesting. Feel like emulating your comrades and leading a charge? Send Banks along as well.

 

BG Ted Huffman

 

The modest and unassuming Gen Kaulbars has been dragged, kicking and screaming, to stand at the head of the AoP. We are sure that all Union men will join us in wishing him all the best in his new command.

President Simon Macbeth

 

"I am struck down" cried Gen Love as he toppled from his horse. Anxiously the others gathered around the fallen hero.

 

His eyesight blurred from blood loss, the stricken General pointed past noble McDowell and unmistakably at his adjutant, Major Kaulbars -"I look to you to save the army" he cried "do not fail me!".

 

"Me?" squeaked the startled nonentity.

 

"On your shoulders" intoned the fallen Hector. Fading fast the delerious General had actually said "Onion's orders", but in the general confusion it was taken as a confirmation.

 

Reaching to both holster and scabbard, Kaulbars drew out his trusty ink pot and quill. "Perhaps we'd best get that in writing" said the irrepressible bureaucrat, but General Love was too far gone.

 

Gazing at the disapproving faces about him, Kaulbars cowered. "Best out of three?" he suggested nervously.

 

McDowell stared impassively, then slowly drew his pistol and leveled it squarely in Kaulbars face, paused, and then brought the weapon to his own forehead; he seemed to reflect again, holstered the pistol and said "Your orders, Sir?".

 

The others seemed to take this as their cue and came to what could pass for attention. Fumbling with his spectacles Kaulbars gestured towards the gray hoards advancing towards them, "I suppose we'd best do something about them, do you think?"…

 

Mr President Sir

 

That was a fit of pure joy at the opportunity to die fight for my country .

 

Major Mike Kaulbars

 

General Kaulbars,

I truly enjoyed your tale of the handover of command to yourself....I do believe that it was not entirely accurate however, as General McDowell fell dead about an hour before General Love was struck down....It may have been one of the other division commanders you saw place the gun to his head....unless you are telling me that McDowell committed suicide....or was that your head he put the gun to? I have not laughed that much on this entire thread. Best post yet....it will likely be a while before it's match is posted. Regards, Hank

 

"The curse of the three gun battery" or "Who do I belong to anyway?"

 

It was not long ago, one short month actually, when the brave and dashing BG Jenkins led his brigade to glory at Winchester, breaking the Union lines and capturing several batteries. To honor his achievement, the Army Commander, General Huffman, graciously allowed him to keep one of the batteries. At the time, Gen Jenkins was heard swearing and cussing up a storm, stating "...that cavalrymen swung sabers and fought from the saddle. They have no business carrying cannon balls." But being the good officer he is, he pried some of his men off their mounts to man the three guns. Through the spring rains they dragged, pushed and pulled those guns eastward to Washington. All along the march, General Jenkins was heard cussing at the guns as they constantly got stuck, threw wheels and basically tried to do everything possible to be decommisioned from service. Finally after lobbing a few harmless shells at the Washington defenders, Jenkins was heard to scream " get those #!*%# usless things out of here!"  In the process of relocating, they stumbled upon 1000 screaming Union troopers. That they were green was easy to see as they could barely keep their saddles. But at that very moment, the old Union guns decided it was time to return to their masters. The harnesses became tangled and the lead gun got stuck in a woodchuck hole, and before you knew it Union boys were everywhere, celebrating their coup. Jenkins, ever the warrior, counterattacked swiftly and easily routed the Union brigade. But when one of his Lt's requested permission to pursue the stolen guns, Gen Jenkins just smiled and said "what guns? I don't see anything" As though he had won a major campaign, he led his troops after the retreating cavalry, but was very careful to give the retreating guns a wide berth. He had had his share of carrying cannon balls and wanted nothing more to do with it.

 

Moral of the story - in response to one of the posts - it is very possible to recapture your artillery. You just have to wait a month.

 

BG Ted Huffman

 

Gen. Whitehead reined in has now tired war horse on the East end of Mathews Hill and looked across the Bull Run valley. The last few hours had seen the hardest and bloodiest fighting of this short war. Over 50 men a minute had fallen over what seemed forever but it was only mid morning. But the gray lines had held and everywhere he looked he could see only blue lines falling back in disorder.

 

The fighting had been desperate. First claiming the life of the Union second-in-command, General McDowell, and then he had just heard the commander, Gen. Love, had also fallen leading desperate attempts to rally the breaking troops. Which division commander will assume command? How long will he take to regain control of the disorganized masses? There is opportunity here but my men are dead on their feet from the constant marching and fighting of this morning.

 

A rider approaches an aide of Gen. Gordon's I believe. "General, suh. With Gen. Gordon's complements, he reports that prisoner recently taken say that one of Gen. Love's aides has been appointed commander." I reply, "That is most interesting news. Please return to Gen. Gordon with my complements and see if he can confirm this."

 

Yes, most interesting. There is opportunity here. And, my worse fear didn't occur. The four year old didn't get the command! Nothing worse than an unpredictable enemy willing to risk all.

 

The General turned his horse northward. Yes, there is opportunity here.

 

Col. Kennon Whitehead

 

Washington May 1861

 

General Passmore looks over his vast number of troops and swells with pride. These soldiers, all green recruits are falling all over themselves to prove they have what it takes to make it as fighting units. They are all proud they were chosen to serve in the AoP and protect the Capital of this Great Nation. It was very surprising to find the CSA had sent one of there Armies on a direct attack on the Capital so early in the War. I suppose they were thinking we would not be ready and have shipped out all our troops to some of the hot spots were the fighting has been so strong. Although a unit of Cavalry was caught sleeping late and were captured at dawn before the Union forces were aware that the Rebels were in the area. ( A terrible tragedy ) There is nothing the General could have done that would have incited his troops more then the capturing of these Cavalrymen.

Every fighting unit in the army is provoked and ready for revenge. Some of the men have bleeding hands from building great breastworks to fight behind. Some of the units have blisters on there feet from breaking in their new brogans.

(All the new recruits for Washington were issued new shoes)

General Passmore and General Banks have done all they could do to get these men ready for battle. Now it will be up to them to prove themselves and show the Rebels they are ready to stand and fight.

 

Lt. General Willie "Rebels Bane" Passmore

Army of the Potomac Army Commander

 

"See that the General gets these orders immediately. I want the Division shifted to the new positions within the hour"

 

Although he'd been dead for over an hour McDowell could not help continuing to take an interest in the fate of the Union forces. The unassuming Major had immediately set to writing out orders in triplicate; the original, and a copy each for Army HQ and the War Department. The air of despair that had settled with the loss of Gen Love began to lift as pens flashed and riders were sent in every direction.

 

In appearance the Major was a diminutive Ichabod Crane flourishing quill and ink pot, but he was asserting his authority quickly. Already there had been an incident when a Col had come pelting up the road shouting about a Rebel breakthrough. The little popinjay had looked up from his papers and eyed the Col coldly, and in voice devoid of emotion had advised the Col that a Regimental Officer's place was between his men and the enemy, both in advance and retreat. If the Col had any news he wished to convey to HQ then he might use a rider.

 

The Col had looked fit to burst, but then immediately grabbed a rifle from one of the guard and red with fury had galloped back the way he had come. Kaulbars watched him disappear down the road and then turned to the adjutant. "Whoever that was, if he lives, see that he gets a commendation."

 

"Now, one moment General, and you shall your orders written out."

 

"The situation is grave Sir, can you not just tell me?"

 

"Are you mad? Tell you here? Now? Have you not seen how Whitehead is posting to the Tavern? The swine clearly has satellite hookup on his laptop; he's probably reading this right now! In fact that's probably his party there on the east side of Matthews Hill. Col, train your glass over there, does it look like Staff?"

 

"It does, Sir"

 

"Good, see if you can get a battery to shake up his hard drive with a good load of shell"

 

"Sir, deliberately firing on officers is ungentlemanly. It is not done."

 

"Well it is done now. This war Sir, not some weekend hunting party on Long Island. If you have any doubts you may go ask the men lying there in the valley below you. Here are your orders."

 

With that the little martinet sheathed his quill and turned his mount in one fluid motion.

 

"But Sir, with these orders you doom the Brigade."

 

"The Brigade is doomed whatever I order. What those orders say is that the rest of the Division is not to die in some futile effort to save them."

 

"You would not dare! the Honour of the Army is at stake."

 

"I would not dare? I will dare not to have more men die for your Honour. If die they must, then it will be for a purpose and to an end that they may achieve, not empty gestures to satisfy the vanity of a pompous ass. This is Salamis and we have been playing Xerxes to his Themistocles. It must stop!

 

Why do you stare so blankly Sir? I refer to Aeschylus. Did you learn nothing at Westpoint? Ceasar, Herodotus? Frederick of Prussia? Bonaparte? What were you doing there Sir? except playing with guns when you were supposed to be learning the craft of War!

 

If you think your Honour is something for men to die for, then you have your opportunity before you now Sir. You have a Saber, the enemy is there below us - go to it Sir, I give you leave!"

 

"The President shall here of this!"

 

"Yes, I have little doubt you will be in Washington long before I, mayhap this very day. But at the moment you have your orders. Carry them out or be field court martialed. Sir"

 

As the General hurried away a Staff Col remarked "That was hard, Sir."

 

"Yes well, Mater always favoured him, and it is about time he had his comeuppance. Stand by me Sirs, once we get this mess straightened out you may yet have a chance to see what I will dare" and then as he began to trot he cocked his angular head towards Matthews Hill "and mayhap so will he."

 

"Barking mad" muttered the Col, and started after.

 

Aye thought the fading McDowell, his usefulness as a literary device now over, it has been Salamis; and Whitehead, may The Fates smite him, has been playing Themistocles. But whether Kaulbars was to play Xerxes or not remained to be seen...

 

 

Lt Col Mike Kaulbars

 

Musings from the West PART ONE;

May 19, 1861, somewhere around Louisville, KY

 

"I thought this war was to start slow and build up to total war over a 4 year period." stated the Major to his commanding General. "Fighting like this isn't supposed to happen in the West until sometime next year!"

 

Yes, it is true. War has hit hard in this quiet rural area of the country. For the 2nd time in 2 months the landscape around Louisville will be dotted, or should I say splashed, red.

 

It's 9AM and the Union advance has been plodding along through the woods since daybreak. Stanley's division has done good work roughing up the enemy while pushing them off the Elkhorn Mountain on our right (aside from that nitwit Sanborn who pushed the 1st Minnesota too far forward to see if any rebs were coming that way-------they were!) while Hamilton and his boys have been have been slowly fighting and pushing back fortified rebs through the entangling mess on the left. Losses have been heavy, particularly to the cavalry who spearheaded the effort (A special commendation must go to Col Gibbons, who kept his cavalry brigade fighting despite overwhelming odds in his front until the infantry came up while the rest of his fellow troopers ran to the rear.)

 

The stage is set for what just might turn out to be the climax of the battle.

 

GOT TO GO TO WORK NOW--WILL CONTINUE LATER

 

General Mike Letus

commanding forces in the vicinity of louisville

 

WASHINTON BURNING! REBELS IN THE STREETS!

 

Hot off the wires comes the story of chaos in our nation's capital. Flames were spotted in the eastern areas of the city. Whether these were deliberately set by the advancing invaders or by some startled house wife is yet to be determined. This publication demands to know, where is General Passmore? Just days ago he loudly promised that Rebel troops would never breach his defenses or set foot in the city. Now there are rebels in the streets and where is the army? Streets are clogged with fleeing citizens. A cavalry regiment, running from the battle has caused numerous injuries as they fled from the action. Where is the Congress and President? We demand a board of inquiry be conveined as soon as possible to determine the cause of this great disaster. Whispers of treachery and treason are spreading over the region. While Rebels are left to roam the streets of Washington, General Passmore's vaunted legions are parading grandly north of the city. This paper; no this nation deserves an answer. How has this happened?

 

BG Ted Huffman

 

Bah!!!!!! Everyone knows what a partisan Democratic rag the Post Gazette is. I'll wait to read it in a REAL newspaper.

 

BG Mike Letus

 

Washington May 1861

 

The garbage being spewed out about Washington City by the Rebels calling themselves The Confederate States of American is pure propaganda. I can assure the citizens of this City and this Great Nation that Washington is in no danger of being invaded by the Rebels.

The City is well protected by the Great Army of the Potomac. I have numerously offer the Rebels the opportunity to lay down their arms and go home. The President has been kept well informed of all activity and I am sure he will soon make an announcement to

the public and assure you the matter is being taken care of.

I have made ever effort to rationlize with the enemy but there General has cut off all negotiation.

While it pains me greatly to think of what I have to do at this point I see no alterative but to open fire on my Southern Brethren. I will crush the invading army and I can only hope there leaders well see the futility of there action. May God have mercy!

Lt. Gen Willie "Rebels Bane" Passmore

Army of the Potomac Army Commander

 

Willie Passmore

 

Musings from the West--Part 2 area of Louisville, KY

 

"Col Sweeney sends word that he's cleared Villepique's Louisiana brigade out of the way and they're in a clearing beyond these woods" reports Capt Franklin Nathanial Stein to division commander Gen Hamilton. "Shall we advance any further?"

"Send the whole division forward!" declares the general, "we must push on." Upon clearing the woods himself Hamilton sees that the key to this flank is to clear the enemy off that ridgeline about 600 yards ahead. There are, however, what appears to be a couple enemy brigades and some batteries blocking the way. "Can we do this?" he asks himself.

 

"Col Mizner, we've been ordered to attack the enemy in our front" was an order the colonel had been waiting to hear all day. The division had been roughly handled last time out. They were showing some mettle today, but his boys had not yet been called on to do much more than guard the trains. "Forward Hoosiers!!! (if that term was used back then) We have been charged to clear the enemy off that ridge---and clear it we shall do!" Nearly 2000 of Indianas finest trudge out of the woods towards the enemy infantry ahead. The lines close to within about 300 yards when the colonels eyes light up with glee. "That is an open flank Lt. Yes--an open flank. Do you see that open flank? We must hit it now before they can adjust their lines!" the colonel stammers excitedly. "Order Quayle's regiment forward towards that flank while Sweeney has them occupied in the front. I will gather up Bayh and his regiment and lead them myself. We must hit them now." (counting mp in my head---YES!! we have enough!) "Fire once on that flank and use the bayonette boys. Yes--use the bayonette!" Onward they went into the gathering confusion. SHots to the left, screams of agony to the right, cheers ahead, all going on at once. Suddenly, a lone enemy horsemen is seen barely 50 feet awaytrying to rally his troops. "Look at that major. That's Albert Rust!!! We fought together in Mexico where he cheated me out of 3 months pay dealing from the bottom of the deck. I had heard he was leading a brigade of Kentucky boys. Just like him to leave an open flank." The colonel takes careful aim at the rider---POW--down he goes, hit in what appears to be the left shoulder. "Take that you scoundrel!!!!!" Mizner cries as the reb line starts to break and run. "Forward Hoosiers--don't let them escape!" (a few minutes pass)

"Sir--uh--sir" Major Drack says sheepishly. "What do you want--can't you see we're clearing the ridge" answers Col Mizner. "We are being flanked ourselves now" replies the major. "How can that be!! Brooke was on that flank. Look--he is facing the wrong direction! Heads will roll for this major. Yes I say--heads will ro....... As if on cue a solid shot hits Col John Mizner and--well--you can guess what happens.

 

Col Pleasant Hackleman had been looking forward to this day for close to 2 months now. His brigade took about 40% losses that time around. "Hacklemans Racers" they were derisively called now. That title stung, and his Wisconsin troops were bound and determined to prove themselves here today. They had taken heavy fire from fortified positions in the woods. And 3 of 4 regiments had run. Now they were being called on to fill the gap blown in the line as a result of Mizner being outflanked. "Oblique right!" he shouted to his men. "Steady boys--steady." Davies was going in on his right, Sweeney was on his left. Ahead was what was known to be parts of 4 brigades that his Mizner and Brookes. "We MUST clear that ridge!" yells Hackleman. Onward they go towards the enemy and--lo and behold--there is an open flank on the forward regiment. The 11th Kentucky, while taking the Indiana boys in the flank, have left their own flank open. "Hit that flank" the colonel yells as his men bowl into the Kentuckians both in the front and flank. After much fighting and mass confusion the dust settles with 294 rebs of the 11th KY regiment on the way to Yankee pow camp. The rest of the line has either routed or fallen back.

 

=================================

All this took place over 1 hex (both Rust and Mizner fell in the same hex) and it's immediate surroundings. 600+ yanks and 900+ rebs--the difference being the captures--were lost in the 9AM to 940AM turn span on the field with virtually all of it (aside from a few troops further North lost to long range fire) in the area of this 1 hex. This battle has been a toe to toe shoot out since dawn and it's been a blast to play. My hat is off to Gen Weir. We still have a long way to go and I still see a lot of rebs out there.

 

BG Mike Letus

 

Washington May 1861

 

Courier from Colonel David Birney:

 

General Passmore Sir,

While moving my troops to the Southeast of Washington City per your orders we happened across a Rebel unit of the 9th Georgia Infantry and a unit of South Carolina Infantry. With the help of the good Colonel Sidney Burbank and his Cavalry we were able to Capture the 9th Georgia unit. I am sorry to report the South Carolina Unit was able to escape but there was some bloody fighting before they made good their escape.

 

Courier from General Passmore,

Good work Colonel Birney and pass the word to Colonel Burbank I am pleased. Please hold that position at all cost.

 

The General lays back on his cot and wonders just maybe if we can win this battle we can put a stop to this little insurrection and put an end to what could turn into a war, a long and bloody War.

 

Lt. Gen. Willie "Rebels Bane" Passmore

Army of the Potomac Army Commander

 

 

Willie Passmore

 

McDowell found himself re-materializing, not entirely, but definitely gaining substance. As his setting became clearer he realized he was in the Washington office of the War Secretary. Sure enough, Thaddeus was sound asleep in his chair, his customary bottle of Port half empty on the desk before him.

 

"Wake up you old fool, there's a war on" he shouted, but the Secretary did not stir. 'Oh blast you and your damned Port' thought the Shade 'I should smash every bottle.'

 

No sooner had he framed the thought when the bottle exploded like a fused shell. The Secretary startled awake and looked wildly about himself. 'Hello' thought McDowell 'this could be fun.'

 

"Sweet Jesus, it's you Irwin. I did not hear you come in. What are you doing here? You are supposed to be with the Army. You don't look at all well, very pale, not well at all. Sweet Jesus , you've been wounded. That's a fearful amount of blood, have you been seen to?"

 

'I should show you the back where it came out' thought McDowell 'but that is not why I am here. Why the Devil am I here?'

 

Suddenly he found himself intoning in a deep and fathomless voice: "A great victory is won at Manassas! The Red Knight approaches Washington"

 

'Good Lord' thought McDowell, 'this sounds like a penny dreadful. Soon I shall be telling him about the next installment of "Great Expectations'

 

"What? What's that you say? We have won a victory at Manassas? Splendid, splendid, but shouldn't we get you to a physician, and where is General Love?"

 

"The Greek has the Crown, but not the Throne. The harvest was too early, the crop bountiful but barren. The Fisher King bleeds anew."

 

"What in the name of Dickens is that supposed to mean? What are you talking about man? Look Irwin, I really do think we should get you to a physician. Damnation man, you are fading. Oh Blessed Jesus, you are fading - you are dead! What can this mean? what can this mean? What is to happen now?

 

" The daughters of Nyx will decide! Remember the Athenians."

 

" Guard! GUARD!"

 

"Ask the moerae, … ask the moerae, …… ask the moerae …"

 

Lt Col Mike Kaulbars

 

McDowell cantered along behind the Little Scribbler. Even on the move he had his inkpot out, taking reports and making notes. He was always writing something.

 

What was it he was always working on? "The Customs of Service" or some such. The most interminably detailed and boring description of every aspect of army life; roll call, arms presentation, how to pass wind in the presence of the enemy. Tedium itself carried to an excruciating degree.

 

No, "Little Scribbler" wasn't fair, he had changed in these four hours. The once auburn hair had streaks of silver, the darting eyes were now fixed and a furious grey, even the oak leaves on his epaulettes had turned silver. He carried himself differently too. Fully upright, shoulders back; he was not as small as McDowell remembered. Still barely able to stay on his horse though - that hadn't changed.

 

The batteries covering the fords continued to pound the Rebels, then the sound of musketry dropped off as men streamed away from the position, but even as he watched another regiment went into the line. Suddenly Kaulbars turned to Col Legget; "Mortimer, if you're going to rally men who have been shot to blazes you have to look fiercer, more determined."

 

"Sir?"

 

"You have exude determination Sir, as if you are prepared to lead them safely to hell and back just for the bloody mindedness of it. You must seem a Ulysses, a Hector blessed by the Gods to lead them to glory. Here, try thrusting out your jaw so that your lower teeth are in front of the uppers."

 

"Sir?"

 

"Really man, try it. It's what Jubal Early does and it works wonders for him. There you go Sir. Now Gentlemen, does this not look a man ready to storm Richmond? Excellent, excellent. Now Sir, if you would be so kind as to go and rally the 2nd and 3rd Delaware, it seems they have routed again."

 

And with that he went back to his notes. McDowell rode closer to have a look. Lists of figures and names of Rebel Brigades. Kaulbars looked up. "Oh it's you Sir.

 

Both men stared at the scene below. Across the Run they could see ranks of blue withdrawing as wave after wave of grey kept hitting them and scattering the line, only to have it replaced by another.

 

"So what is the situation here? It was dire when I left."

 

"Well, we have doubled the rate at which we are killing them, so that is to the good. Unfortunately it may not be enough. Just look at this would you."

 

McDowell looked over the sheet Kaulbars was waving at him; it was the list of Confederate Brigades. "God's blood, that's at least half again as many as we were told."

 

"At least, and in this confusion I can't be sure that I have got them all. Maybe after this mess the President will establish a real Army Bureau of Military Information instead of relying on Pinkerton, damn his eyes."

 

"You think Pinkerton a traitor."

 

"Pinkerton is well enough as far as he goes, he just does not go far enough. We might have known what to expect if we had agents simply collecting recruiting posters and Rebel newspapers. They make no secret there what Regiments and Brigades are being mustered and where.

 

And the slaves Sir, think of the slaves. They come and go and no man thinks a jot what he is saying in front of a slave. The slaves know more than Davis does, and bear him and the Southern cause no love. Why if we had a decent network to collect what knowledge the slaves have we should know what Lee will have for breakfast before he does."

 

A fused shell hit a gun in front of them and men scattered as bits of limber rained about. Kaulbars galloped forward to the battery screaming "Keep firing damn you, keep firing! If you're going to die at least be vindictive about it. Take some of the damned traitors with you!" McDowell caught up as the remaining guns resumed their barrage of 2 Regiments cowering behind breastworks across the ford.

 

"Will you hold?"

 

"Hard to say. The men are green and have taken a fearful beating today. How much more can they take? But the Rebs are new to this too and the battle has been a long one; they too must be suffering. With luck sheer terror will keep our lads going longer than Whitehead can drive his men. I say we shall know within the hour, two at most."

 

 

Lt Col Mike Kaulbars

 

LATEST.... LATEST.... LATEST....

GREATEST MILITARY VICTORY SINCE CANNAE

REBELS SURRENDER WITH HARDLY A SHOT FIRED

TROOPS CHEER 'GENIUS' OF GEN SCHLITTE

 

Reports have come of the encirclement and surrender of an entire army of Rebels, along with their commander, Gen 'hit them on the extreme right' Shannon. Early indications are that dozens of guns have been seized by the victorious boys in blue, and that even now a column of more than 10,000 dispirited Southerners are being put to work building their own prison stockade.

 

More news as we have it.

 

The General surveyed the scene to the north. The Yankees have covered the crossings of Bull Run around Sudley well. There seems to be no way to get at them without heavy cost. Its past noon and the troops have been fighting since dawn, how much more can they take? He turned toward the sounds from the East. The rifle fire from there had picked up and now was an almost continuous crescendo. He saw a rider coming toward him from a distance. I hope its news from Gen. Johnston and not another fool story about seeing the ghost of Gen. McDowell.

 

General Wade Hampton followed Col. Lang’s lead Florida regiment up the hill along the winding farmer’s road. His cavalry had not done well in the first battle on this ground suffering the only surrender of a regiment on the field. But this day the cavalry had performed flawlessly. First delaying and screening the Union attack on the left until the infantry could deploy and drive them back and in the process giving the Federal cavalry that had punished them so hard in the first battle a taste of the same. Then they had crossed the battlefield to take up position on the right with orders to find a way to cut the Warrenton Turnpike.

 

One benefit of having had to defend the Club Run line in the last battle is the General new of this trail connecting the old Warrenton road to the Turnpike just west of the Suspension Bridge. The question is do the Federal know and have they blocked it? The road turns to the right as it passes the edge of steep slope. The General looks out across the open farm land between Club Run and Bull Run. The land almost looks covered in blue. Broken and disorganized troops of at least two divisions are spread before him for almost a mile along the Warrenton Turnpike seeking safety of the other side of Club Run. Have they defended this side of the bridge? The General still hears no musket fire indicating that Lang’s regiment has met resistance. He spurs his horse forward down the winding road to find the head of the column.

 

He comes quickly upon Col. Lang at the edge of a field. “General Hampton, suh” says Lang excitedly, “There is no force between us and the road!” The General cannot believe his fortune. He looks to the left. There is some cavalry moving rapidly down the road but it will be too late. “Colonel, take your brigade forward and hold that knoll and woods covering the Turnpike.” “Hold it at all cost, I will go and get infantry to relieve you.”

 

He turns is horse back the way he had come. We passed Armistead’s brigade on the road coming here. He should not be far behind. Lou will understand the situation and do what needs to be done. Yes, this will be a great day for the Army of Northern Virginia and its cavalry.

 

Col. Kennon Whitehead

 

To The Honorable President of the USA. Simon Macbeth,

 

Mr. President,

 

It appears Washington will soon again be secure. The Rebels forces are contained to the East of Washington. However it appears they will escape on the Baltimore Turnpike and head for Baltimore.

I ask you sir are there Pickles in the Vinegar!

 

Regards,

Lieutenant General Willie "Rebels Bane" Passmore

Army of the Potomac AC

 

Willie Passmore

 

General Huffman,

 

It has recently come to our attention that you will be paying a visit to our fair city. In honor of this great occasion, I am preparing a ball in your honor. It would please me greatly if you and your officers could attend.

 

Your Humble Servant,

Thaddeous J Blowhard,

Mayor of Baltimore

Col. Baltimore Home Gaurds

 

REPLY:

 

Mayor Blowhard,

 

Your invitation is most gracious. I trust my men and I will have a delightful time. Before I can attend, I will need your recommendation for a reputable tailer in Baltimore. It seems the Yankees have managed to capture a few of my wagons, and my dress uniform was in one of them.

 

General Huffman,

Commander, Army of the Valley

 

Dispatch Washingtion May 1861

 

Oliver Howards 1st Division of General Nathaniel Banks Corps was viciously attack today East of Washington by the Rebel forces.

While more or less escorting the Rebels out of the Washington area the Rebel forces turned on the unsuppecting division. Out numbered and out gun the Union troops while under heavy artillery fire held there ground and gave as good as they got. Colonel George Steuart of the Rebels forces was killed in action and General Edward Johnson was wounded. Causalities were high for the Rebels while the Union had only minor losses.

While the Union feels for the family of these Officers they were in fact breaking the laws of this great nation.

General Passmore was overheard saying . (If a war is what they want then by God almight a war they will get.) (mumbling) attack my young troops like that they will pay.

 

 

Willie Passmore

 

Washington Nightfall May 1861

 

A quite calm settles over the Nations Capital as dusk arrives. With the approach of nightfall the people of Washington are starting to feel secure in there hope that the Rebels will not attack the city while they sleep. Then a noise is heard coming from the East side of the City. A roaring sound and as it spread through the city the sound increased to such a level it could be heard for miles. The troops miles east of Washington could hear the CHEERS of the city as word spread the Rebels have been defeated and were running east for safety. There will be celebrating in the ole town tonight. A great battle and a great victory. Maybe the Rebels will see the light and give up there hopeless cause and reunite this great Nation.

 

General Passmore feels somewhat deflated as the battle ends. While he is proud of his men and there actions in battle and swells with pride knowing they did a great job for no more training then they had. For they will only improve with this experience behind them and a job well done.

He had welcome the change from the mundane chores of going to all the Balls and playing politics to all the Senators. It seemed the businessmen were forever offering him gifts. Just a little something for you sir and if the occasion arises and you can throw a contract my way it will be greatly appreciated. Well its back to business as usual I guess. Now if my feet will only hold out dancing with all the grateful, graceful and beautiful ladies, maybe it won’t be so bad. It’s a tough job dancing with all the ladies but someone has to do it.  

 

Lt. General Willie “Rebels Bane” Passmore

Army of the Potomac AC

 

From the front page of the Richmond Times Dispatch

 

VICTORY IN MARYLAND!!!

 

In what officials here are labeling "a brilliantly concieved and executed campaign of deception," the Army of the Valley, under the command of General Ted Huffman, has nimbly sidestepped the defenders of Washington DC and marched on Baltimore. Our veteran regiments feinted at the Republic's captial, causing panic and general unrest in the streets. With relatively light losses, General Huffman marched his Foot Cavalry around the captital defences and headed towards Baltimore and a promised warm reception there.

 

An undefeated Confederate Army loose in the border State of Maryland raises all sorts of possibilities. The presence of General Huffman's Army may be enough to sway that state's sympathetic legislature to join our Confederation. At the very least it will swell the pride of the southern sympathizers and drive them to enlist in our cause and take up the musket in defence of States' Rights. Now situated between two victorious Southern Armies, Washington is nearly isolated. Rumors are rife in this town that at any moment we could expect to see a delegation from Washington to negotiate an end to hostilities.

 

BG Ted Huffman

 

Manassas: Evening May 1861

 

Quiet had finally settled on the battlfield after ten hours of continuous fighting. The General rode slowly down the Warrenton Turnpike passed a small farm, the Spindle place he had heard one of his staff say. Looking East in the light of the now setting sun there were seemingly endless columns of blue. But they were no longer a threat, thanks to Gen. Hampton's quick action, they were stacking their arms and preparing for parole and home.

 

The army had achieved a great tactical victory but news from Gen. Huffman indicates the planned strategic victory failed. The General hangs his head, so close to winning our independence and ending the war. Now he must make up his losses and prepare this army for yet another battle. He must drive those people from Virginia.

 

What's that you say? Is that General McDowell's ghost howling in the night that I hear?

 

Col. Kennon Whitehead

 

Kaulbars sat atop a little knoll and continued his scribbling. He seemed unconcerned and oblivious, but McDowell noted his grip on the quill was so fierce he feared that it might snap, and the life long non-smoker was fiercely puffing a cigar.

 

Before them the wounded were being marshalled for the march. Those who could walk were already assembling in an open field while the others were being loaded onto wagons. A party of senior officers approached the knoll and dismounted. Kaulbars motioned them to approach and began speaking without interrupting his writing.

 

"Gen Reynolds Sir, your orders for the Cavalry as follows.

 

Col Gormans Brigade to immediately secure and patrol the road from here to Centerville; if a squirrel attempts to cross the road I want us to know about.

 

As soon as possible I want patrols to scout the roads from Centreville to Chantilly, Fairfax Courthouse, and to the NE. I want us to know if there is any Rebel activity to our rear and the conditions of the roads.

 

Hovey and Bakers Brigades to move immediately to Centreville and begin laying out and constructing defensive works. Breastworks, gun pits, as much as may be done before the rest of the army arrives.

 

Thayers Brigade to follow and then immediately to rest. The moment the terms of the ceasefire lapse they are to begin aggressive patroling of the area, particularly in the directection of Manassas.

 

Osterhaus's Brigade immediately to rest as they will form the rear guard for the column. I do not expect Whitehead to play us false, but we will take no chances.

 

Finally, please detach a dozen of your best riders to accompany the Major here.

 

Major, accompany the Gen and once you have your escort convey this packet to Washington with all possible speed and any means necessary. Once there you are to place it in the hands of the President or the Secretary of War and none other. Is that understood?

 

Gen Wadsworth, once the the Cavalry have moved out see that the main column gets under way. Wounded first, then the guns. You are in command of the column and once in Centreville you are in charge.

 

All wounded that may be safely moved are to continue on from Centreville as soon as humanly possible. Send them by the most direct route back to Washington. I shall be riding with the rearguard and will join you anon.

 

Thank you Gentlemen, God speed to each of you."

 

McDowell moved closer and regarded the solitary figure. "You did all that was humanly possible" he ventured.

 

"Then it was my responsibilty to do the impossible" barked Kaulbars, suddenly glaring at McDowell "would you take comfort in such bromides?"

 

"No" granted the General "I would not. I would be thinking what I might have done differently, what I should have done differently."

 

"Exactly" spat Kaulbars returning to his writing "so do me the courtesy of peddling them on someone else for you will find no market here for your sophistry."

 

McDowell looked down at the road below. Long columns of Cavalry were moving off in good formation except for the rear guard which was bivouacking a little ways off. For a column this size it would be some time before the rear guard would have to fall in. Beyond them infantry screened the assembly area. Here and there stragglers still emerged from copses and gullies.

 

"Sitting up here writing does not inspire the men."

 

"Defeat inspires them even less. I propose to restore their hearts with battles won, not vainglorious posturing."

 

"Your scribblings will acheive that? A mighty pen indeed to break Gen Whitehead's sword"

 

"Archimedes claimed he might move the earth with his own hand, given a lever and a place to stand. I am more modest, I merely propose to crush the Army of Northern Virginia with this quill."

 

"Modest indeed, and how do propose to do that?"

 

"You are the Shade, can you not peer through the veil and know what will happen?"

 

"I see ... possibilties ... things that may happen, and others that make no sense, yet carry an aura of significance that I do not comprehend, portents without context. No more." Suddenly Gen McDowell howled with laughter

 

"What is it? what have you seen?"

 

"Gen Whitehead, yet ... no, it makes no sense. It is nothing."

 

"Very well then." Kaulbars rose and moved to his horse. "And of yourself? do you know your fate or purpose?"

 

"No, these too are hidden from me. I suppose I shall continue to haunt the Army of the Potomac until my purpose is fullfilled, whatever that may be. And what of you Sir? will you continue to haunt the Army of the Potomac?"

 

"That is for the President to decide." said Kaulbars as he mounted "It is for him to say if my purpose has been fullfilled." With that he paused and turned back to McDowell. "But if it is not to be, I shall miss you Sir." With that he cantered down the slope.

 

Lt Col Mike Kaulbars

 

Louisville Slugfest (part 1)

 

Col. Phifer's mount danced and spun amidst the smoke and dust, his sword waving wildly in the air, his voice hoarse from trying to be heard above the roar, as the men of the 12th Georgia continued to load and fire, the enemy minie balls with their distinctive whirling buzz coming from every direction.

 

Only hours before in the quite dawn he had no more worries than getting the brigade deployed in line of battle in the woods. The sound of musket fire echoing down from the heights to the northwest, growing sporadically as the first hint of sunlight filtered through the spring foliage only hinted of the coming conflict.

Phifer had the men of the Georgia brigade busy themselves in the early morning hours improving their position, he knew infantry always felt a bit more secure with something to stand behind and keeping them occupied kept their minds off the impending fight. It wasn't long before General Loring ordered the brigade to advance toward the sound of battle. The 11th. and 12th. Georgia were ordered to the high ground west of the crossroads, filling the gap between McLain's Alabamian's on the ridge and Vepique's Louisiana boys to the east. No sooner had they arrived when the exchange of fire in the heights to the northwest grew stronger. They continued to advance toward the point of rocks on the ridge and the now ever growing sound of battle. Col. Phifer walked with the 13th and 14th Georgia as they ascended a small rise and deployed into the freshly vacated position of the 11th. and 12th. Georgia.

 

And then it came.........the wave of blue rising out of the morning mist all along the ridge. The 11th and 12th. Georgia volunteers had hardly caught their breath from the climb as they quickly unleashed a volley in to a full division of Yankees, the enemy advance slowed then paused as they unloaded their rifles into the gray clad youths. As the smoke drifted back down into the valley the sound of a bugler blowing the charge reverberated on the mountain rocks as the 1st. and 2nd. Michigan charged into the 11th Georgia whose newly minted Col. Hanson urged his regiment "steady men" and "give'um the cold steel boys". Some how the line held and the Yankees slowly sank back down the slope into the cover of the rocks, the popping of sporadic fire could barely be heard over the cheers of the Rebels when Col. Hanson went down, dead before he hit the ground, the rebel line grew quite and someone on the left yelled fallback another agreed and the rout began, the 11th Georgia carrying the 12th with it....down the hill past the rest of the brigade, the fear in their eyes growing with each step.

Col. Phifer was stunned, he could not believe it was his men who were running, men that had performed so gallantly on this very field just two months ago. He ordered the rest of the brigade to fall back into the cover of the woods and went off after the 11th. and 12th.

 

to be continued.....

 

Col. R.A.Weir

 

Quick update....3 battles finished....Mannassas major Union defeat with many surrenders.....Washington....a draw....no real fight there.....the western metting engagement between Paducah and Ft. Donelson....major Confederate defeat many surrenders, including General Shannon....only a few scattered survivors....Paducah and Louisville still going....I am going to be leaving for a week in 24 to 28 hours....The 16and Under NFSA Softball Nationals are in Gulfport Mississippi, and my team will be playing there....If any of ya'll live nearby and want to come say hello....email me and I'll set it up.....we will be there from this weekend till next weekend....Ya'll will have to do without my guiding hand for that week....lol....Notso and Tom can handle the headaches??????????? Regards, Hank

 

Your intrepid reporter was eager to see the battle raging outside Washington, and has spent the last few days attached to General Passmore's army:

 

THE GREAT RETREAT

HOW THE REBELS CAME AND WENT AGAIN

"WE SAW THEIR BACKS, WE TOOK THEIR MULES"

 

The great battle never was. The Rebel army thought Washington was there for the taking. Their dreary dirges as they marched towards the capital had the people covering their ears. But they came, they saw, they ran away, leaving most of their supplies behind them.

 

If all of the war is this easy, opines your humble reporter, it should all be over by Christmas.

 

Northern Newshound

 

Louisville Slugfest (part 2)

 

Col. Phifer still had not returned to the remaining Georgia regiments and General Lovell had been issuing orders directly to the two regimental commanders. It was still early morning, 7:23 if the 13th Georgia's Col. Thomas Williams' time piece was correct, the men had just returned to their line of hastily built works in and along the woods when musket fire erupted to the east. The 14th Georgia had moved off in that direction to support the 12th Louisiana, but the sound came from beyond their position. Still it was getting closer with each volley and the scream of artillery shells soon joined in. As the acrid smoke of the black powder slowly drifted through the under brush they waited.

 

The right was being driven back, only Villepique's brigade was holding, the wind rows of dead enemy laying before them displaing their handy work, but now they were being flanked. General Lovell desperately issued orders, Rust's brigade in the center would move to the ground now held by the remnants of the Georgia brigade, the 13th to move by the right oblique to support the 14th Georgia.

 

As Col. Williams dressed his line with the 14th's, new orders arrived, "Advance and drive the enemy from your front". Williams could see no enemy to his front only trees, but he knew they were out there....how many and just how far he did not know. The order "Fix Bayonets" ran down the line, "Quick Time", "March" and the line lurched forward, over the works and down the hill they marched. It wasn't long before they found their target, two regiments of union infantry were formed in a small clearing on the right...and as luck would have it they were none other than the 1st and 2nd Michigan the very same that had caused the other half of the Georgia brigade to rout earlier. Williams ordered "Halt" so the men could dress the line which had been broken up by the wooded terrain. The startled Yankees leveled their muskets and let off a ragged volley doing little damage. The Rebels returned the salute and with the order "Charge" the Georgian's came whooping and yelling from the woods. Williams was sure they could carry the position and his men surly would have done so, if only........if only the woods to the front and left and the high ground on the right had not filled with blue coated devils. As the Michigan regiments broke and ran, Williams ordered his men to "Fire by the Left Oblique" to little effect. One volley then another came from the front, then the left and the Georgia boys could stand no more. They now knew what their fellow Georgian's in the 11th and 12th had felt earlier, they now saw that same look in each other eyes and running was the only way to get away from it.

 

To be continued..........

 

Col. R.A.Weir

 

From the Lexington Herald:

 

The ladies of Lexington certainly appear to be relieved at the transition from Rebel to Union hands of the city. Said Dahlila Wilmington of the Lexington Ladies Tea Club " These Union officers certainly are more cheerful and (off the record) they smell better too. And the army's commander, General Golen. Never has there been a handsomer nor braver officer than he."

There you have it fellow Lexingtonians. Our fair city is finally fair again in the hands of it's lawful governors again. This editor wish's to thank the bigwigs at the confederate capitol for deciding to abandon our city to the Gallant Army of the Kentucky.

 

How did you like that clipping gents? Now remember no swipes at me. I'm just passing this on.

 

Brigadier General Don Golen

 

CAPTURED GENERAL SHANNON BROUGHT TO WASHINGTON

HANGING WAS EXPECTED

THE PRESIDENT'S WORDS OF MERCY

 

The President today addressed the captured traitor general in the presence of the Secretary of War and other members of the cabinet.

 

"General," said the President, "I do not know what events in your life have led you to take up arms against your native land, and to lead others in battle against it. In the olden days there was only one punishment for traitors. Many citizens of this Republic wish that extreme penalty to be applied to you.

 

This I cannot do. I believe you have acted from sincere and deeply-felt motives, although I also believe those motives to be based on error and lies. I therefore leave you to your own conscience, in the hope that you will use this reprieve for your own benefit and that of others.

 

Go then! Leave this city and return to your own home. Live a better life than the one that brought you here as our prisoner. Lead no more of our countrymen to their deaths."

 

After the address the general was handed his sword. He was escorted through the lines and handed over to Rebel pickets outside Manassas. This reporter sincerely hopes that the President's words will be carried throughout the rebel States and will lead to a greater degree of understanding and wisdom than we have so far seen from them.

 

Northern Newshound

 

The Richmond Rag

 

!!!VICTORY IN NORTHERM VIRGINIA!!!

 

The Army of Northern Virginia under the leadership of Gen. Whitehead routed the Army of the Potomac from its positions around Bull Run. In a series of masterful strokes our army drove the Yankees from their positions scattering them across the country side. Three enemy divisions forced to surrender! The remnants of their army pouring back to Washington defenses! Huge quantities of munitions and supplies captured. Over forty colors captured! Twenty Yankee officers killed or captured including the Yankee commanders.

 

Southerners everywhere celebrating. With two victorious armies posed within miles of Washington can it be long before the nest of vipers are cleaned out? Rumor is that British observer much impressed with our victories and occupation of Baltimore, Maryland feel that recognition of the Confederacy will soon occur.

 

Col. Kennon Whitehead

 

Louisville Slugfest (part 3)

 

For over an hour Colonel Phifer had been desperately trying to get the 11th and 12th Georgia organized, they had run as far and fast as their lungs could take them and were now scattered about in the open ground south from which they had fled. Little by little he collected his command, finding company officers to gather together their noncommissioned officers who could then gather the men of the company. He had herded the unruly mob into a hollow near Clemons lane out of sight and ear shot of the continuing battle.

 

He was explaining to the young Lt. Col. Coyle his new responsibilities as the commander of the 11th Georgia when the men around began to cheer, turning around Phifer watched as General Weir and his staff came riding down from the ridge. Old **** for Brains the junior officers called him......but never to his face, last in his class at the Alabama Military Academy he was certainly nothing out of the ordinary, that is until there was a fight, then there was a change, he stood just a bit taller, his voice clearer, stronger and there was a light that shone in his eyes.

 

That light burned now as the general rode amongst the men, as he told them of their duty, of their wives, daughters and mothers back home, of their God given rights that those people were trying to steal and when he had finished the men realized what they must do....

 

The General returned Phifer's salute as he dismounted, the Colonel waited for the dressing down he knew was coming, instead the General laid his hand on the Colonel's shoulder and in a fatherly voice said "C Dub'ya this day has not gone our way, yet its still early and we will succeed.....let us get these regiments back in line, like us, they have much to do today".

 

As the General mounted to leave, Phifer heard his name called, turning to find a rather dusty and disheveled Major Simms of the 14th Georgia saluting. "Colonel(pointing back north) them woods are swarm'n with Yankees, we was ordered to charge in, and then there was Yankees everywhere....we pushed some back but the boys couldn't stand such fire....anyway sir, both regiments run, they're back up on the ridge, behind the artillery." General Weir leaned down to the Colonel saying " Get these men back in order and I will see about the rest of your brigade." With that he spurred his horse and rode back up the ridge.

 

To be Continued.....

 

Col. R.A.Weir

 

------The Nashville Daily Record------

 

This just in from the front..........

 

The Yankee army has been stopped cold just outside Louisville, Kentucky. After hours of fighting and the loss of thousands on both sides the Confederate forces under General R.A.Weir have held the line. The union army entered the field with a two to one advantage yet they were "again" unsuccessful in their attempt to drive our glorious defenders of freedom from the field.

 

The General was heard to say "With the expected influx of reinforcements the Army of Tennessee will again go on the offensive and drive those people from our soil."

 

A GREAT VICTORY IN KENTUCKY

REBEL FORCES ROUTED

TRIUMPH OF ARMS AND LEADERSHIP

 

Reports have come in of a resounding victory for our forces outside the city of Louisville. The battle raged all day; Union soldiers continually advancing as the motley Rebel crew fell back, reformed, and fell back again. The smoke was so intense that it was difficult to tell friend from foe, but in the end the field was cleared of traitors, who streamed back in confusion and terror.

 

With this defeat the Rebels in Kentucky are in a desperate situation: surrounded on three sides, leaderless and bereft of hope. It seems to this reporter as though they will have little choice but to fall back to their wolf's lair of Tennessee or face imminent destruction.

 

Northern Newshound

 

Louisville Slugfest

 

The Conclusion;

 

Colonel Phifer had gotten the 11th Georgia back in line and leaving it in Lt. Col. Coyle's hands had moved on to the 12th to get that unit back in order. General Weir was bringing the disordered ranks of the 13th and 14th Georgia down into the same hollow when yankee cheers could heard from the ridge above and Rust's 9th Kentucky regiment came running past in confusion with the wounded Colonel Rust in tow.

 

The right was very much in danger of collapsing and the artillery on the ridge might be lost. Orders were given to remove the artillery and for Phifer to return to the 11th Georgia, supported by the dismounted 6th Alabama cavalry along with Villepique's 11th La and Rusts 11th and 8th Kentucky to attack the enemy on the ridge.

 

Phifer knew it was suicide to advance back up that ridge, but he had his orders. The 11th dressed its ranks wheeled to the right and moved toward the gap in the enemies line that the 11th Ky had just moved into. The men marched as if on the parade field, their battle flag waving in the slight breeze, at about eighty yards out the union unleashed one volley then another, men fell but the line did not waver nor the pace slow. The 11th Georgia pushed on and at 40 yards out Lt.Col. Coyle ordered "halt", and "Fire" the volley hitting Mizner's Indianans with good effect as did the 8th Alabama, their carbines deadly at this range. The 1st and 3rd Indiana broke under the deadly fire, leaving a gaping hole in the union line, but only for moments as the gap was filled by Willard's 3th and 4th Michigan along with Hackleman's 1st Wisconsin coming out of the woods and down from the ridge almost as soon as it had opened.

Rusts 11th Kentucky was now in a sorry spot as the blue belly's rained a deadly storm of lead at them from three sides then charged. What little of that fine regiment escaped ran though the ranks of the 11th Georgia spreading panic as they went and for the second time that morning the 11th ran and all Col. Phifer could do was follow.

 

Dressing their lines as they advanced, rolling down from the heights, the wave of blue advanced, artillery unlimbering on the rise behind them. All that stood between them and the destruction the Army of Tennessee was the remnants of Phifer's brigade and the men of Villepique's 13th Louisiana on their right and two regiments of Little's Tennessee brigade on their left.

The Colonel formed the nine hundred men of the 12th and 14th Georgia facing the northeast, toward the wall of union blue. He rode along the line his sword held high, his voice booming "Here we make a stand..men, here we shall find Glory!"

Now the yankees were upon them, four thousand union muskets spewing death with each volley, the 14th Georgia taking the brunt of the fire could take no more and broke for the rear.

Col. Phifer's mount danced and spun amidst the smoke and dust, his sword waving wildly in the air, his voice hoarse from trying to be heard above the roar, as the men of the 12th. Georgia continued to load and fire, the enemy minie balls with their distinctive whirl kept coming from every direction.

It seemed the gates of Hell had been thrown open before these men and as they slowly fell back, still they loaded and fired at the surrounding foe, their blood splattered commander urging them on.

 

It started as a barely discernable woo hoo off on the left, beyond the grove of trees, Colonel Phifer still atop his mount may have been the first to hear it, the sound grew stronger and the Georgia men knew it was the yell of rebels charging, they had held long enough and now it was the yankees turn to run. Phifer croaked "pour it to'um boys" as the wall of blue began to break, receding back up the ridge from which they had come.

 

This battle was still far from over and the men of Colonel C.W. Phifer's Georgia brigade would again be called on to defend their righteous cause, but as the three hundred and sixty seven thankful men of the 12th Georgia knew, this had been their finest hour, they had indeed found glory and lived to tell about it.

 

Thanks again to B. Gen. Mike Letus for a most enjoyable game and for providing the inspiration for this story. 

 

Col. R.A.Weir

 

Gen Weir,

I can exactly pinpoint that moment in my head. Here comes this big blue juggernaut rolling up the hill, through the woods, to the ridge, and down the hill. I'm making excellent use of reserves to fill in for routed units while guessing where I think is the weak point in your line and hitting it hard. All of a sudden what seems to be a minor counterattack results in the rout of roughly 25% of my whole army, much of them just stepping into the front line for the first time!!! It was a similar feeling to what you had to have had earlier in the battle when your whole flanking column routed away after one unit in it took heavy fire. You gotta love these F level units! Fortunately (for me) I had reserves to cover this mess until the units could recover and get back into the action, but that one turn did take away my chance for what up to that time looked like a smashing massive victory in the making. It took a couple hours to fully recover from this and get the 'juggernaut' rolling again. Only the refs, who could see what we had and what we were in the process of doing, know what could have been if we had another few hours to fight it out. Great game!!!

 

BG Mike Letus

 

REBEL COMMUNICATIONS INTERCEPTED

CRYPTOGRAPHERS CALLED IN TO DECIPHER SPELLING

THEIR BATTLE PLANS REVEALED

 

The following was found on an enemy spy traveling from Richmond to Baltimore:

 

"Yor armee shud atak in conjunkshun wit Genrul Witeheed as soon as posibul. Katch damn'yankee in midul."

 

The sophistication of this plan has kept the President awake for three nights as he tried to formulate an effective counter. Rumors that loud laughter was heard from the White House have been dismissed as 'speculation'.

 

Northern Newshound

 

Richmond Times - News from the Front

 

CONFEDERATE ARMIES CONVERGING ON WASHINGTON!

END OF WAR IMMINENT!

 

According to sources close to the top echelon of Confederate command, our armies have been reinforced and are preparing to march on Washington from Baltimore and Manassas to crush the aggressors at their source.

 

President Davis refused to comment on specifics of the plan but did hint he was preparing terms for his generals to present to the authorities in Washington, 'should the opportunity present itself'.

 

Among his top demands, according to rumor, are the immediate recognition of the Confederacy, the removal of the illegal blockade of our ports, and reparations by the United States for war crimes against the Confederacy.

 

T. G. Henderson,

War Correspondent

("Have sketch pad, will travel")

 

SALES OF RICHMOND RAG PLUMMET

READERS TIRE OF BLATANT PROPAGANDA

THEY TURN TO 'NORTHERN NEWSHOUND' FOR THE TRUTH

 

The latest issue of the Richmond Rag, printed on recycled toilet paper by the 'government' in Richmond, sold precisely one copy according to reports received from our sources.

 

'Sold' is perhaps too flattering a term: after an entire day in which piles of this festering newssheet served as spittoons for the passing populace, a dishevelled figure was seen to emerge from the Confederate government building and grab a complimentary copy. It was none other than the self-styled 'President' Davies.

 

This reporter is of the opinion that it is a sad day when members of the other side are taken in by their own propaganda, and urges readers to support an objective and truthful newspaper.

 

Northern Newshound

 

AN APOLOGY TO OUR READERS

BOYS IN BLUE GAIN 3 CITIES

REBELS EVERYWHERE IN RETREAT

 

We regret the error in our last bulletin that caused us to add an unwanted 'e' to the name of the self-styled popinjay in Richmond, thus perhaps confusing him in some minds with the brave and resourceful Gen. Davies of the Union army.

 

It is with joy and sorrow that we report on the great success of government arms over the last two months. Joy, because three of this nation's great cities: Harper's Ferry, Louisville and Fort Donelson, have been freed from the hateful tyranny that oppressed them. Sorrow, because we know that many sacrifices lie ahead, and much blood will be spilled unnecessarily, before the rebel vipers are crushed under heel.

 

We therefore call upon our readers to prepare for sacrifice, toil and hardship. Very rough weather lies ahead, and battles are to come that will cause weeping and lamentation beside many a hitherto happy hearth. We ask for patience, for forbearance, for it may well be that the final extinction of a baleful domination will pave the way for a broader freedom and solidarity between all the men of this land than we ever could have thought of if we had not marched together through the fire.

 

Edited by - Northern Newshound

 

Richmond Times - News From the Front

June, 1861 - Second Battle at Bull Run

 

After a long stalemate on the Bull Run front, the two forces moved again. Following are the facts relating to that second encounter, as told to this reporter by the Confederate commanders involved and verified by the many Federal officers captured during the engagement:

 

This Second Battle of Bull Run was basically a continuation of the previous battle. Both sides had remained in place long enough to throw up some entrenchments along the lines they held at the end of the previous battle. Again the Confederate divisions were deployed covering the fords with Hill on the left, Gordon in the center and Early on the right. The cavalry covered Sudley area and Trimble was moving back behind Island Ford area as reserve. As fate would have it, both sides decided to move on the same day. However, they both began early, before the sun had fully risen. Although the drumbeats and sounds of marching soldiers heralded the fact that the enemy was on the move, the exact movements of both sides were hidden from the other for an hour or so. Since the enemy had crossed the Bull Run above Little Bull Run with cavalry there was the potential of getting around to the Confederate rear by a very long route (via Pageland Lane, which crosses Little Bull Run).

 

Although it was not public knowledge at the time, the Confederate Army of the Shenandoah was marching on Washington at this time. Therefore, there was a need to keep a communications line open with them. Because of this, the Confederate commander at Bull Run felt the need to take a much more aggressive stance than he had before. Judging from the lack of pursuit when his attack was made across Blackburn Ford earlier, he decided his opponent would be again slow to return to this area but would use Cub Run for covering his rear and left. This meant the Union would be able to strike hard at the Confederate extreme left (which was already turned), although it would take considerable time to get their infantry into position there due to the poor road network.

 

The Confederate commander decided to gamble on a major shift of strength. Knowing that he couldn’t defend the Sudley area sufficiently with the forces in that area or prevent enemy cavalry from getting into his rear, he sent Trimble immediately to the left and part of his cavalry to the Pageland Lane area. This force was followed by Early’s command from Blackburn Ford. The goal was to have this movement accomplished without being observed. Trimble’s brigades were to use the nearby Manassas-Sudley Road, with would both hide and expedite the movement.

 

Before full daylight the Union launched attacks along almost all of the Confederate left and center. Major pushes were being made at Sudley and at Ball’s Ford, where the Confederates had only one full brigade, supported by a few detached regiments from other brigades. One of Hill’s brigades was ordered to move to assist, but the simultaneous attack across Poplar Ford made this difficult. The strongest attack was at Ball’s Ford, where at least a division was crossing. Fortunately, Gordon’s division was posted in this vicinity and had plenty of strength with which to counter.

 

The columns moving against Farm Ford and the Stone Bridge were the first to be repulsed and again almost exclusively by artillery. This freed up Hill to make a counter attack toward Poplar Ford that drove back the division that crossed there. It is here that Gen. McDowell fell while trying to rally troops about mid morning. Eventually, Hill cleared the area of enemy and was able to send more troops left to stem the Union advance in that direction.

 

On the far right the Union finally realized that Blackburn Ford was undefended and crossed there about 9 a.m. By that time, Early had moved to the center near the Ball’s and Island Fords, relieving Gordon’s men to concentrate on the crossing at Ball’s Ford in preparation for a counterattack.

 

At this point, Providence smiled on our forces. The Union had pushed most of a division across the Bull Run and into the woods behind the ford, opening fields of artillery fire. This left a narrow frontage protecting the ford on their right. To the utter disgust of the Union commander—although no surprise to us—the Yankees protecting the ford decided to run, opening the ford to counterattack. Gordon shoved a fresh brigade into this gap and sent the rest of his forces against the Yankees in the woods. The Yankee formation caved in and were cut off from reinforcements. Union General Love, in a desperate counterattack to reopen the ford and prevent isolation of almost an entire division, fell wounded. Early’s division joined Gordon’s, sealing the fate of the Federals. It took the better part of two hours to round up all the Yankee prisoners.

 

At about the same time as the counterattack against Ball’s Ford, Trimble’s division finally got into position behind Mathew’s Hill. Hill’s brigades had been falling back in good order before the Union onslaught. When the Yankees finally broke through the woods to light of day and open fields to the Confederate rear, Trimble moved forward and hit them. Our cavalry had moved to the far left and so effectively blocked enemy cavalry attempting to turn our left that many of our troopers were able to return to catch the right of the Union line, advancing on Mathew’s Hill. The combination of fresh troops and cavalry on their flank was too much for the weak-willed Yankees, and they scurried back to the Sudley Ford and safety. The Union attack on the Confederate left had been vigorously repulsed.

 

By noon the initiative had shifted to our boys and the battle changed to a pursuit. There were still forces blocking Balls Ford so Early was disengaged and left Gordon to clean up and use Lewis Ford to uncover Ball’s Ford. Early reformed and crossed unopposed at Island Ford and deployed for an attack due north toward the Warrenton Turnpike. Hill crossed at Poplar Ford and started the encirclement from the north with help from the cavalry. By 2 PM our three divisions had driven the main part of the enemy army into a pocket with their backs to Club Run. With the Warrenton Turnpike bridge captured the Union surrendered all forces in the pocket and the battle was over.

 

The forces caught in the Ball’s Ford counterattack resulted in the capture of over four thousand troops. The pocket that surrendered at 2 PM yielded another 8,500 men, two batteries and a large number of officers for a total of 15 regiments. The forces routed at Sudley Ford were also driven off the field to the north, a resounding victory for our forces!

 

T. G. Henderson,

War Correspondent

("Have sketch pad, will travel")

 

 

Gentlemen,

Another update! Paducah is finished! All fighting for the turn is now complete....Review: Mannassas was a Federal disaster.....Louisville a Union vicrory-Confederates fall back to Nashville......Ft. Donelson Falls to the Union-Confederate force gets same treatment as AOP at Mannassas.......Lexington Ky, and Harper's Ferry fall to the Union unopposed.....Confederates skirt Washington and take Neutral Baltimore...........Paducah falls to the Confederacy....both the Confederate army at Baltimore, and the Union Army at Ft Donelson are presently cut off......Spies report a Union force under Grant now at Charleston, WV. and 2 new Confederate forces: 1 under Stuart at New Orleans and another under R.E. Lee at Norfolk......well that is all I presently have.....we are presently polishing some of the rules for reinforcements,isolated units and 2 pronged offensives.....Regards to all, Hank