This morning the
boys remain in their bunks unmindful of reveille, showing a determination to
obtain some sleep and rest after the two days, trip to the mills. No news came
with this evening's mail and everything seems quiet and dull in and around
Corinth. During the latter part of this month, (February) nothing of note
occurs, and also during the month of March a dull monotnoy prevails in the camp
of the Seventh, Colonel Babcock having been for some time president of the
Military Commission in session at Corinth, for reasons best known to himself
resigns his colonelcy of the Serenth regiment and leaves the service; and we
all regret to see him leave for he has been to us a good, brave and faithful
officer. The following testimonial from his companions in arms will speak for
itself.
Whereas, Colonel Andrew J. Babcock has resigned his
commission as Colonel of the Seventh regiment of Illinois Infantry Volunteers,
and we the officers and men of the Seventh having been long under his command,
both appreciate his worth and deeply regret his separation from us, therefore
be it
Resolved, That in Colonel A. J. Babcock the state of
Illinois and the army of the United States have lost a brave, competent and
meritorious officer.
Resolved, That we, who have for nearly two years been
associated with him in his duties, in the garrison and in the field, through
many toilsome marches and in the hard fought battles of Donelson and Corinth,
bear witness that he has proved himself a most daring, discreet and loyal
leader; and that in the execution of his office, as well as his personal
bearing, he has won not only the confidence and respect but also the esteem and
affection of all his command.
“Resolved, That
as Colonel Babcock from the first organization of the first regiment of Illinois-from
the opening of the war to the present date, has proved himself before us, as a
commander most efficient—as a man and a brother in arms at once just, genial
and generous, we sincerely hope and trust that his affairs may again permit the
government to avail itself of his invaluable services in the field; and should
such be the case, it will be our highest happiness to be again associated with
him in the service of our common country.
Adjutant.
As the Colonel
leaves us we remember those wintry days of battle on the Cumberland hills
before Fort Donelson, and how with the private soldiers he endured the battle's
privations there; and how amid smoke and flame he led the Seventh on to
glorious victory. We also remember how he moved upon Corinth's bloody field and
proved himself a leader true, when darkness and gloom seemed to mantle the
Seventh's brave soldiers. May he on his return to civil life receive tokens of
gratitude from Illinois' grateful people.
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