There are few detailed records of the service of W.M.G. Torrence, with the exception of his status as a commander in the Battle of Roan's Tan Yard. On January 7, 1862, information came to hand that a Confederate force was camped on Silver Creek, in the Union-occupied area of Missouri. Major Torrence served in command of a reconnaissance force, composed of approximately 450 men, from various Union units. After finding the camp, Maj. Torrence ordered them to attack. They drove out the Confederates, and destroyed the camp to prevent its future use.
