#101 – Col. M. D. Corse

 

Report of Col. M.D. Corse, Seventeenth Virginia Infantry

O.R.– SERIES I–VOLUME 2 [S# 2] — CHAPTER IX, pp 544-545

BLACKBURN’S FORD, ON BULL RUN, July 22, 1861

GENERAL: I have the honor to submit the movements of the Seventeenth Regiment of Virginia Volunteers on Sunday, the 21st instant:

Shortly after daybreak Company H, Captain Herbert, was ordered to cross the ford as skirmishers. Soon after this movement the enemy, about twenty minutes to 7 o’clock a.m., opened on our camp with shell and round shot. Captain Herbert remained in view of the enemy on the opposite bank for several hours exposed to this fire, and during that time successfully repelled a body of skirmishers deployed against him. At the several points observed by Captain Herbert there were posted two batteries and a large reserve of infantry to sustain them. During the morning the regiment was ordered to cross the ford, which order was promptly executed by officers and men, and the regiment formed in column at the head of the ravine, on the enemy’s bank, near their batteries. Shot and shell were incessantly poured over their heads, but without any damage, and the regiment under order retired to their original position.

The only loss sustained was by Company H–one killed and three wounded. Officers and men displayed a good deal of coolness and bravery.

I have, general, the honor to be, your obedient servant,

M.D. CORSE,

Colonel, Comdg. Seventeenth Regiment Virginia Volunteers

Brigadier-General LONGSTREET,

Commanding Fourth Brigade, C. S. Army