Chattanooga, Tenn.
Nov. 26, 1863
My dear Parents,
Yours of 12 inst. has come to hand.
I improve the earliest opportunity of letting you know that I am safe, as you have probably heard of a great battle being fought at this place and are uneasy as to the results. Today is Thanksgiving Day and we have great reason to be thankful. A battle has been fought and we by the aid of God, have gained a great victory.
Yesterday about three PM our forces stormed the rebel stronghold on Missionary Ridge amid a perfect storm of shot & shell drove them from their position, captured their artillery, many prisoners & the whole Reb. horde are rapidly retreating. Our forces are in rapid pursuit - prisoners have been arriving all day it is estimated that we are good for 18000 prisoners (Ed. Note: An exaggerated estimate. The Confederates reported 4,146 men missing in action at Missionary ridge.) & 50 pieces artillery.
By Kurz & Allison - Library of Congress, Public Domain, Link
I am in my tent today. I was stunned by the explosion of a shell close to my side & some bruised by a section of a shell striking me on the left side that is all – will be able for duty in a short time. (Ed. Note: Not a bad report for David’s first time in major combat.)
Frank and Mat are safe. Sergts. Port & Goodrich were wounded. Pvt. Minian wounded. R. Hanbibber killed of our Co. Capt. Whittlesy Co. F killed. Lieut. Townsend Co. I killed. Cousin Doug wounded in foot. Adjutant wounded in head. Loss of 92nd killed, wounded & missing about 50. Maj. Golden was not in the fight, was sick in camp.
Give yourselves no uneasiness relative to my care as I shall undoubtedly be able for duty again in two or three days.
Ah, yesterday was the most glorious day of my life; it is worth a whole lifetime of hardship to enjoy one hour pursuing the Gray Backs. happy, happy day.
Give much love to all
Affectionately, etc.
David Putnam
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