2nd Florida Command

Vicinity of Dade City

Nov. 18, 2024

Captain Bocken,

I arrived in camp on Friday afternoon and proceeded to issue the necessary orders for the 2nd Florida to set up camp.  Our muster consisted of 1 Captain, 3 Sergeants, 2 Corporals and 6 Privates.  We eventually prepared our meal and the evening was quiet.

Saturday, we prepared for battle with Capt. Alan Turnbull (37th Alabama) commanding the southern army consisting of the 2nd and 8th Florida, 37th Alabama, Col Kohls brigade along with Lt. Katz’s dismounted cavalry and other units united in our cause. 

Captain Turnbull had us positioned on the south end of the field as the Federal threat was advancing from the north.  A very large part of the Federal army consisted in United States Marines, many of whom had marched from Panama City Florida commanded by Captain Chris Lidek of the 17th Connecticut, 4th Brigade, USA.  Combined with a Federal Army company under Captain Keith Van Louven, this force presented the greatest challenge our army faced in recent memory. 

The Federal army opened their artillery on our positions in early afternoon and caused great stress with their barrage.  At a pause, the combined Federal forces attempted to sweep the field.  Captain Turnbull was having none of that and ordered our brigade to put a stop to their demonstration.  The 2nd Florida, as the first company took the right and repulsed the Federals to our front and flanks.  Similar action was observed on our left by the 8th, while the 37th Alabama and Colonel Kohl’s brigade battled back and forth in the center.  After numerous casualties on both sides, I regret to inform that the Federals won the field, but quickly quit the field to tend to the wounded, etc., as did we.

Before the battle, Captain Chuck Sheridan of the 4th Alabama Courier Staff, came into camp and gave his compliments to our Corporal Daniel McNally, who distinguished himself by providing significant assistance to Captain Sheridan and the 8th Florida in camp setup and firewood chopping.  Corporal McNally was publicly commended and a hearty 3 cheers were given.

After the battle, Federal Captain Lidek, approached the 2nd Florida camp under a flag of truce, and put forth an interesting proposition.  He stated that he had some junior NCO’s that needed experience in leading a skirmish and wondered if the Southern army had the same need.  The suggestion was made that we conduct a joint tactical battle in and around the town.  In the spirit of promoting brotherhood between the north and the south I agreed.  We further agreed that both sides would fire powder only and no ball.  We divided into Blue and Gray squads.

As Corporal McNally had so recently provided gallant service to the 8th, I assigned him to lead the gray squad.  Marine corporal “Top Rat” was assigned by his commander to lead the blue.  Captain Lidek and I acted as safety officers and marshals for the exercise.

As soon as it was completely dark, Corporal McNally was told to take his squad into town and set his men into position.  After a few minutes, Corporal Rat was told to go.  He immediately divided his squad into 2 platoons and sent each around the outside of the town, each from a different direction.  Corporal McNally met each as they came and engaged in skirmish.  Both sides fought well, and each NCO got a taste of command.  After we marshals called a halt, Captain Lidek and I each offered compliments and suggestions to both sides.  We marched back to our respective camps with the hope that one day the Blue and Gray squads could meet as friends.

A further opportunity for brotherhood arrived sooner than expected as the town offered a Ball and invited each side.  Many of our men attended, danced with the town’s young ladies and shook hands with soldiers that they had been earnestly fighting earlier in the day.

Sunrise Sunday found the Federals had completely pulled out of their camp.  Our army cooked breakfast attended church (Pastor John Butler preaching), and then prepared to return to their homes and farms.  High spirits grabbed hold, and our men ran into town again for a lively skirmish among themselves.

I also extend my compliments to the 2nd Florida NCOs.  1st Sargent Hollingsworth and 2nd Sargent Bartholomew ran the camp, and each commanded a platoon in the battle.  Sargent Sealing arrived in camp early with abundant ordnance.  While unable to stay in camp, QM Sargent Griffith went out of his way to be sure we had all necessary equipment and cooters.  Corporal Sullivan always cheerfully pitched in and made sure camp authenticity, and all small details were attended to.  Corporal McNally was mentioned earlier in this report. 

Our private solders also get my compliments.  All performed as professional soldiers and marched and fought well.  I could not be more proud of all these men.

Thank you for trusting your command with me.  Sir, I shall await your next orders and am truly

Your Trusted and Obedient Servant,

Capt. Tom Dye (bvt)