H'dqr't'rs 3^d Brigade 1^st Div. 3^d Corps

Camp near Falmouth, Va. Dec. 29.1862

Col. J. Fred. Pierson

1^st New York Vols.

                                   

Sir,

                                                In justice to your endeavors to make the Reg'm't under your command one of the best in this Division, I beg leave to say, that you may have positive proof of the value set upon those exertions, That, since your promotion to your present position, Your Reg'm't has improved beyond my expectations, although I well knew of your previous worth as an Officer. When the First New York joined my Brigade at Fair Oaks, its discipline was very poor. The habits of many of its Officers were such as to demoralize to a great degree the entire Reg'm't. I almost despaired of ever making it a perfectly reliable organization.

 

I am happy to say that through your exertions many worthless Officers have been got rid of. The Reg'm't is now a model of discipline, perfect good feeling exists among its Officers. The men are happy, contented and efficient to a high degree and I consider the Reg'm't as one of the best in the service.

 

            You are at liberty to use this letter if necessary in defending your position and acts as a Commander.

 

            With much regard for your future prosperity,

                                                                                   

I remain,

Your friend & Sv't

(signed)           H. G. Berry

Brig-Gen'l Vols.

 

[endorsement]

 

Dec. 29. 1862

Brig-General

            H. G. Berry

to

Col. J Fred Pierson

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