March 2025

Florida Brigade and Hardy's Brigade HQs:

As I sit to pen this after action report, my mind is transported back to the wonderful experience which was had by all at Broxton Bridge.  Hardy’s Brigade was represented by the Florida Brigade at Broxton Bridge with elements of the 2nd Fl. Co E, 37th Alabama, and the 8th Fl. Co. B, and 8th Fl. Co. G.  In all we had over 25 men present for duty. Before I continue with this report, I would be amiss to not offer a special “Thank You” to the 5th Georgia Cavalry for inviting and hosting us at this event.  It was gracious on their part, and a true example of Southern Hospitality and Honor.

As we arrived on the field, we were met by early arriving elements of our command, who had received reports of elements of Sherman’s army being reported nearby.  Those who were prepared went out to engage and stop the advance of these troops.  Elements of the 37th Alabama, and the 2nd Fl. Co. E went out to engage the troops along with elements of the 5th Ga. Cavalry.  They engaged the enemy and battled for several hours before the enemy returned to their main force.  The report from the skirmish was received and all knew that a battle was imminent, and readied themselves for the battle ahead.  Friday evening saw us receive a wonderful surprise and we were hosted by local citizens who prepared a wonderful meal for us consisting of rice and beans, bar-b-que pork, and coleslaw.  A great time was had by all.  Later that evening word came to send two soldiers from each command to the quartermaster, and the troops were surprised as our supply wagon had arrived and we were issued fresh eggs and slabs of bacon.  The next morning the men were able to enjoy a good hot breakfast.

As the day progressed on Saturday the men attended a parade and colors, and then retired to camp.  A report was received that the enemy was advancing and we were ordered to form for battle.  Our initial responsibility was to protect the Brigade’s mountain Howitzer and Williams’s gun.  Once the troops arrived on the field and the enemy was seen crossing the bridge, the brigade was ordered to protect the left flank of the Confederate Army.  As the command moved to the left there was union cavalry spotted to our left.  We quickly formed to protect our flank, and the cavalry attacked us, and were caught by surprise as we had captured two Henry rifles along with an immense amount of cartridges.  The cavalry was repulsed on multiple attempts, and finally shifted their attack to the right flank of the army.  By this time Union troops had come over the first line of works and rifle pits.  We moved up to engage the troops and were able to stop their advance.  We battled back and forth for a great period of time until we were able to drive them back over the pits and then to the bridge.  The men after fighting an intense battle found themselves extremely tired and almost out of ammunition had to stop their advance.  The armies retired for the evening.

As we returned to camp, the men were once again surprised by an incredible meal of beef stew, venison stew, cooked cabbage, and banana pudding.  A great meal was had by all!

We arose on Sunday morning to once again being fed by the local folks and we were provided a meal of grits, eggs, and bacon.  Every man had a grand time.

Sunday brought in cooler temperatures and the boys were itching for a fight.  Orders came from command, and the union army was on the move.  Orders came for us to once again protect the mountain howitzer, and the Williams gun.  As we approached the field we broke our troops into two platoons, 1st platoon was assigned to the Williams gun, and 2nd platoon was assigned to the Mountain howitzer.  Once the Union troops engaged, part of the 2nd platoon was pulled to help support the Confederate infantry as they were lacking men to hold their position.  Our troops moved forward and supported the infantry and helped to hold the left flank of the Confederate army once again. An intense battle entailed and both platoons were moving from one position to another across the battlefield.  First platoon found themselves engaged with the cavalry once again, and Captain Turnball found himself engaged in a sword battle with them.  Once again the cavalry were repulsed and forced to withdraw.  The battle went back and forth for a good period of time and finally a truce was called and a withdrawal was agreed upon.  Thus ending the engagement at Broxton Bridge, however this conflict continues on as Sherman continues his march.

This was the first time a great many of us had made the trip to Broxton Bridge, and we found it to be an excellent event and are planning on making it a yearly part of our schedule.

Respectfully Submitted

Colonel John Porterfield (interim)