J. Harris to Unknown

To whom it may concern.

I hereby certify that I have been acquainted with Sergt. Bruce McCormick of Co. C. 53rd Ills. from the time of his enlistment till about the 20th of Nov. last.

Although not very well, he was on duty for the greater part of the time till soon after the battle of Shiloh when he was taken with a low form of fever (typho-Malairous) and sent to General Hospital. In August last, he rejoined his Regt. and marched with us to Bolivar Tenn. where he is now in Hospital.

About the 1st of Oct. Past I was appointed Surgeon in charge of the Post Hospital (& at a later date, Post Surgeon) & for about two months while I was in charge Sergt McCormick was daily under my own observation and I considered him entirely unfit for duty and recommended his discharge. I consider that the refusal or neglect to grant his discharge is an act of great injustice to a willing intelligent young man as well as an injury to the Govt. by retaining in the service one who is totally unfit for all duty & undoubtably ever will be.

J.O Harris M.D.

late Capt. Surgeon 53rd Ills. Infty

Ottawa Ills.

Feby 2 1863

(20)

Certificate of J Harris