re: 154 years ago today....

My GG Grandfather commanded a regiment at Vicksburg on top of the hill. Slaughtered the Yankees with guerilla tactics. Slipped away without capture to join Bragg's army of TN at chickamauga. Slaughtered more of the Yankee devils. Chased Sherman from Atlanta to Bentonville NC and with maybe 100 men, forced 800 of Sherman's army to surrender. Word came later Lee surrendered the week before. Forthrightly told his men to stand down and surrendered his sword to Sherman. Sent to Richmond prison, but Sherman was so impressed by his character, how he treated his captives, ordered his release. Gave him a horse, his 40th regiment battle flag and his sword and told him to go home. So odd to see honor practiced by victors and the vanquished. Not sure Grant would have done that, but he acquiesced to Sherman's request.

Battle of Bentonville by NC Press is a good read for those interested.

ETA: Pemberton was a Lily livered fool who cost us the War. No officer under him had any faith in his strategic ability much less respect for his command.