H^d Quarters 3^d Brig. 1^st Divⁿ 3^d Corps

Camp Near Falmouth V^a Dec 29^th 1862

 

Col J Fred Pierson

1^st New York Vols.

                                               

Sir

              In justice to your endeavours to make the Regiment under your command one of the best in this Div, 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 Regiment has improved beyond my expectations, although I ever knew of your previous worth as an Officer. When the 1^st New York joined my Brigade at Fair Oaks, its discipline was very poor. The habits of many of its Officers was such as to demoralize to a great degree the entire Regiment. I almost despaired of ever making it a perfectly reliable organisation. I am happy to say that through your exertions many useless Officers have been got rid of, the Regiment is near a model of discipline, perfect good feeling exists among its Officers. The men are happy, contented & efficient to a high degree & I consider the Regiment as one of the best in the service.

           

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

           

With much regard for your future prosperity

                                                           

I remain

Your Friend & servt

H G Berry

BrigGenlVols

 

[overleaf]

 

December 29. 1862

Camp Pelcher Va.

 

H. G. Berry Brig-Gen'l Vols.

 

Letter addressed to Col.

Pierson 1^st Reg'm't N.Y.V. as

to his Reg'm't &c. &c. &c.

SOURCES