Boston January 8 1866.

 

General,

            Under date June 8 1862 as commanding officer of the 32^d Masstts Infantry I had the honor to address your office a written request for the muster out of Lieut Jonathan Pierce of that regiment as a supernumerary officer. My communication was referred to Capt Goodhue mustering officer at Boston with orders to muster Mr Pierce out of service In accordance with the order Mr Pierce was mustered out receiving the discharge herewith enclosed with an erasure implying that there had been something in his "conduct or physical condition" rendering him unfit for the army.

 

            Mr Pierce who is a brave and honorable man feels that this implication is unjust as I also know it to be. My application for his muster was based upon the fact that he was a supernumerary officer and I stated that he was not a desirable officer which was the curt expression of my judgment that it was not desirable to retain him to act as quartermaster for which purpose he had been recommissioned so I felt the need of an officer better qualified or instructed in these duties. I knew that he was supernumerary and thought it not desirable for the service that his case should be made an exception.

 

            I have therefore the honor to request that a clean and honorable discharge as of the same date may be issued to Mr Pierce & have the honor to be

 

Very respy your obt Servt

   Francis J. Parker            [faded] Colonel

         32^d Mass Infty.

 

The Adjt Genl of the Army                         

                                                                                       

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