Page:Southern Historical Society Papers volume 08.djvu/335

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Gettysburg.
323

forming him of my position. He then ordered me to fall back to my original position in the rear of Pegram's battery. On the 3d, my brigade was held in reserve to support the battery in my front. The list of casualties has already been sent in to you.

Very respectfully,

C. Posey, Brigadier-General.

Report of Brigadier-General Edward L. Thomas.

Headquarters' Thomas' Brigade,
August 12, 1863.

Major J. A. Engelhard, Assistant-Adjutant General:

Major—I reply to circular of August 12, 1863. I have the honor to report that this brigade, on July 1st, was, by order of Major-General Pender, formed in line of battle on the left of the road leading to Gettysburg. In this order it advanced to within about one mile of Gettysburg, in readiness to support Major-General Heth's division. From this position the brigade moved still farther to the front, and took a position assigned to it by Lieutenant-General A. P. Hill. Here we remained until near sunset, when, by General Pender's order, we took position near Gettysburg—on the right of the town—in support of artillery. This position was occupied until the night of July 2d, when, with General McGowan's brigade, it was directed to take position in the open field, about three hundred yards in front of the enemy's line, on the right of General Ewell's corps. Here we remained until the night of July 3d, when we were ordered to take position in the woods on the right of Gettysburg, near the town, from which place, on the night of July 4th, the march was commenced to Hagerstown, Maryland. The brigade lost many valuable men and officers in heavy skirmishing with the enemy. The conduct of men and officers throughout the campaign was highly commendable.

With highest respect, your obedient servant,

Edward L. Thomas, Brigadier-General.