Report of Captain T. R. Buckner, Forty-fourth Virginia Infantry.
AUGUST 6, 1863.
LIEUTENANT: The regiment reached the scene of action about sunset, July 1, and lay in line of battle that night and the next day till about 3 p. m., when it was exposed to a furious shelling, though, fortunately, no one was hurt. About 6 o'clock, the advance commenced. Halted several times, and did not get within the range of musketry until after sunset. Crossing a creek at the foot of the mountain, we charged up the hill, driving the enemy before us; but by the time we reached the enemy's breastworks it was so dark that it was impossible to distinguish friend from foe. All was confusion and disorder.
The works in front of our lines were of a formidable character, and in some places they could scarcely be surmounted without scaling-ladders. Finding it impossible to dislodge the enemy from this strong position, the line was ordered back. The men fell back without exhibiting the least sign of trepidation, and were halted within some 150 yards of the enemy's works, where there was a ledge of rocks. Skirmishing and occasionally heavy firing continued all the next day and at times during the night.
On Saturday morning [July 4], about 2 o'clock, we fell back from our position. The men were almost completely worn out and exhausted for want of sleep and food, and by continuous fighting, &c.
The list of casualties amounted to 56 killed, wounded, and missing. Among the former was Lieutenant R. W. Bailey, acting adjutant of the regiment, a most gallant and efficient officer.
Respectfully,
T. R. BUCKNER,
Captain, Commanding Forty-fourth Virginia Regiment.
Lieutenant J. G. ANDERSON, Acting Adjutant.
