Head Qurs. Army of Nor V^a

4^th May 1864

 

General Orders N^o 38

I           The following instructions are published to promote the efficiency of the Army & the observance of them is earnestly enjoined upon Officers and men.

 

II         Staff Officers and others whose official positions may make them acquainted with contemplated movements will abstain from speaking of them & endeavor as far as practicable to effect their arrangements without giving publicity to the object for which they are intended. By neglect of this precaution the enemy frequently obtains valuable information.

                                   

III        Comd^g Officers will give strict attention to prevent straggling on the march on any pretext, and keep their men well together. Company Officers will always march with their men, as the enforcement of this order will depend chiefly on their care & vigilance.

                                   

IV        In an engagement every effort must be made to keep the men in their places, officers & file closers will enforce this order by the most summary measures. The closest attention must be given to the firing of the men in battle. In every engagement a great deal of ammunition is wasted by firing when the enemy is out of view or out of range. Such ineffectual firing emboldens the enemy, who is encouraged by finding / it harmless. Regimental Officers can prevent this by keeping their men cool & directing them when to begin, which should never be until the fire can be made to tell. An example of calmness & self possession on the part of Officers will have a better effect than excited exhortation.

                       

All experience shows that those troops suffer least who get nearest to the enemy and fire with deliberation and aim. Battles fought on this principle rarely last long.

 

(Signed) R. E. Lee

General

 

Official

G M Sorrel

Lt Col AAGenl

 

For

Maj Genl J. B. Kershaw

Comd^g Divⁿ

 

[endorsement]

 

General R E Lee                             

May 4 1864                              

Gen Order                   

No 38                          

 

Instructions to officers about observing secrecy in regard to contemplated Army movements &c

 

Directions about firing in time of battle Etc. movements &c

SOURCES