R. M. Lackey to Richard Yates

Rock Island Barracks Ills.

June 15th 1864

Richard Yates Gov. of Illinois

Dear Sir:-

In view of the great need of additional medical & surgical aid at the front, I have concluded to give up my position here, and volunteer my services to assist in relieving our sick & wounded men at the front.

I write to request you to give me a written Statement of my intentions & the object of my mission, as it will aid me much in procuring passes, and gaining the confidence of medical & other officers, which are essential to my success and

In regard to my services in the Army, & my professional Standing I would refer you to papers in the Adjt, Genls Office at Springfield, also to Dr. [Fred?] Brainard & the principal physicians of Chicago, and to Surgeon Stevenson of the 14th Ills Vols, Col. Nalworth (late of 42nd) &c

It is most probable that I will go to Virginia - Especially if more hard fighting occurs there soon.

An early reply is desirable -

I have the honor to be Governor,

Very respectfully Your obdt. Servt.

R.M. Lackey Act. Asst. Surg. U.S.A.

Rock Island Barracks - Rock Island Ills.

Lackey. R.M. A.A.S.

Rock Island Barracks.

June 15. 1864

On Volunteering his Services to go to the front to relieve the sick and wounded Soldiers in the field, requests such letter as may specify his purpose and obtain the facilities necessary to the fulfilment of his mission.

Write him good strong letter enclose to him --thank him for his good intentions