Samuel Caldwell to C. E. Carr, enclosure

Camp Near Corinth Aug. 12.

C. E. Carr, Esq.

Galesburg, Ill

Dear Sir.

I want the colonelcy of one of the new regiments; partly because, like other men, I like to make way in the world, but mainly because I am satisfied I can fill the place to the advantage of the country. I have been in sirvice continually since the beginning of the war, most of the time as an officer. I understand infantry tactics to perfection, & was for some time instructor in the officers' school of my regiment. I was through the whole of the fighting at Ft. Donelson, & commanded a company there. I was through the two days battle at Shiloh. I was aide-de-camp to Gen. Oglesby in the siege of Corinth, & was in several skirmishes with the enemy's pickets. I am able not only to drill a regiment & instruct its officers in administration duties, so as to make it thoroughly & permanently effective, but I can also

handle it to advantage in battle. New men, however excellent, cannot compete with officers of experience in organizing, training, & leading troops.

I understand you have the confidence of the Governor. If you can so represent the case as to get me the above position, I give all the knowledge you have of me as a guarantee that I will make good my words. I am at all events

very sincerely your friend

& servant

Samuel Caldwell

1st Lieut. 8th Ill. Vol.

A.deC. Brig Gen. Oglesby

2d Brig. 2d Div. Army Tenn.

Galesburg Ill Oct 12 1862

Dear Governor

I was a classmate of Caldwells in College - He was regarded their as the best scholar in the institution He would make an excellent colonel but I suppose it is too late for that He deserves promotion - He is brave & capable - If possible I should like to see him promoted

Truly Yours

Clark E Carr

Dr Saml Caldwell

Corinth

Aug 12/62

Endorsement of Clark E Carr - Wants to command one of the new regiments

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