159                                HISTORY OF THE SEVENTY-EIGHTH REGIMENT O.V.V.I.

fired from my line, Colonel R. K. Scott, commanding my Second Brigade, was captured by the enemy while returning to his command from a detached regiment; and during the first attack, both Brigadier-General M. F. Force, and the Adjutant General, Captain J. B. Walker, fell severely wounded. These officers occupying the position they did, and having the entire confidence of their commands, could not be spared without great detriment to the Division. This was particularly the case with Brigadier-General M. F. Force, whose coolness, sagacity and bravery had long since won the admiration of the whole Division, and always inspired the men with confidence and enthusiasm.

           The Batteries of Artillery in my Division, the Third Ohio, Battery "D," First Illinois, and Battery "H," First Michigan, did very efficient service during all of these successive engagements, and their officers and men showed great skill and determined bravery. Captain W. S. Williams, Third Ohio Battery, my Chief of Artillery, is entitled to great credit for the coolness and skill displayed in adjusting and using his batteries, and in saving them when exposed.

           Especial notice is also due to Colonel George E. Bryant, Twelfth Wisconsin, who assumed command of the First Brigade, when General Force fell, and to Lieutenant Colonel G. F. Wiles, Seventy-Eighth O. V. V. I., who took command of the Second Brigade. These officers, though taking command after the battle commenced, displayed great skill and coolness. Captain G. D. Munson, my picket officer, was very efficient in the management of the skirmishers until drawn in, and in acting as Aid during the balance of the time. My Aids, Lieutenants A. W. Stewart and George W. Porter, Captain J. C. Douglass, A. A. G., Lieutenant W. H. Hessin, A. A. A. G., and Major John T. Rainey, A. A. I. G., all displayed great coolness and bravery in collecting information and delivering orders, and Lieutenant V. Warner, Ordnance Officer, for his skill in saving his train, and his promptness in keeping the command supplied with ammunition.

           The character of the fight was such, our front changing so often and so rapidly, that the position of a staff officer was more than usually exposed, yet all were prompt and efficient. Lieutenant Hessin fell from his horse severely wounded, during the latter part of the fight.    *    *    *    We captured about four hundred prisoners, and from less than two-thirds of the ground fought over by the Division, buried and delivered to the enemy under flag of truce, between nine hundred and one thousand dead rebels. I am fully confident that my Division killed and wounded more rebels than I had men engaged.

I am, Colonel, very respectfully,

Your obedient servant,

[Signed] M. D. LEGGETT,

Brigadier-General."

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