July 1,1863 first day of Gettysburg of Louisiana 8th Infantry including Opelousas Guard .

On July 1, 1863, the 8th Louisiana Infantry (part of Hays' Brigade) helped rout the Union Eleventh Corps north of Gettysburg. They swept into the town, capturing disorganized Federal troops, before taking cover at the base of Cemetery Hill.Key details of the unit's actions that day include:Initial Engagement: Advanced into the fray as part of Maj. Gen. Jubal Early's division.Route: Helped shatter the Union line north of town, driving Federal defenders into the streets of Gettysburg.Casualties & Strength: The regiment brought 296 men to the field and suffered a total of 75 casualties over the course of the battle.