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Grand Army of the Republic
Isaac Davis Post No. 138

Supplementary War Sketch for James Edward Richardson

 

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James Edward Richardson

James Edward Richardson

While on the Burnside Expedition off Hatteras we encountered one of the worst storms ever known on that perilous coast. A part of our Regiment was on an old river boat the Louisiana and it was greatly feared she would not be able to outride the storm. This was but a foretaste of what we endured while on the Island. And many of our boys found a last resting place on that sandy shore from exposure and lack of provisions by way of fuel, tents, etc. General Williams the officer in command not having made any arrangements for us. I can truthfully say I enjoyed most of my Army life, although I encountered many hardships and saw much that brought a great deal of sadness to my heart in the loss of my brave comrades in battle each man of my company was my friend and I trust found me the same to him. I will mention a few names who were especially near to me, first my brother Justin S. Richardson, Thomas Todd, Charles Thurston, Thomas Whitney, John Osgood, George A Whitney, not omitting every man in his command and trust. I may be pardoned if I add this letter written by Capt. Hanscom to my wife which was one of his many tributes of appreciation for the men in his command.

"The Letter" - I had the honor to command Co. K. 6th N.H. Vet-Vols. During the time from the Rappidan to Petersburg and I cannot say to much in praise of the Co. as awhole, but I would like to speak of one who always did what he thought was his duty under all circumstances. I have reference to my orderly Segt. Jas. E Richardson a whole souled brave man. At Spottsylvania May 12, I was standing back of this line of battle when he came back to me saying his gun was so foul it would not discharge. I told him to take out the nipple and put in some powder he dropped on his knees and commenced to do the same, my attention was called from him for a moment by a flank fire from our right, when I looked for him I saw him on his hands and knees and blood pouring out of his mouth. I stepped to him helped him up and looked to his wound and told him the ball had gone into the corner of mouth, knocked out some teeth and passed out the other corner, I had no idea he was so terribly wounded. I directed him to the Corps. Hos. as near as I could and told him to come leave his musket which he would not do, he left me as I supposed - a short time afterward someone touched me on the shoulder.