2nd Florida HQs

Palm Coast Vicinity

March 27, 2023

Colonel Kearney,

Sir, my after-action report of the recent engagement at Narcoossee Mill is as follows:

On Friday evening I arrived in camp and greeted by Major Dorr and Sgt. Wolf.  I quickly noticed Major Dorr was ill and insisted that he report to the field hospital.  Although reluctant and not wanting to appear derelict in his duties, he refused.  However, the next morning he relented and was moved.  That night I met with 1st Sgt. Bocken concerning the next day’s fight.  It was decided that Sgt. Bocken would be granted a much needed short-term leave – thus leaving Sgt. Sealing to assume the position of 1st Sgt and Cpl. Hollingsworth the position of 2nd Sgt. 

On Saturday morning, the Unit attended Colors and immediately began drill.  We lined up for battle that afternoon under the command of Colonel Fred Jakobson.  After a fierce artillery barrage with the enemy, Col. Jakobson sent us in first to face the Yankee army.  Initially, we fired several volleys on a small artillery battery.  Soon after, we face both enemy infantry and cavalry.  Although we stood our ground bravely, we were forced to withdraw – meanwhile stopping to fire on the enemy as we gave ground.  In the end sir, we were unfortunately forced to give up the field to the enemy. 

That evening, we attended the celebration of life of a fallen comrade before returning to camp to take care of our wounded and get some much needed rest for what was sure to be a tough fight the very next day.  On Sunday afternoon, Col. Jakobson sent 2nd Fla., along with 8th Fla., around a large pond in an effort to outflank the enemy.  Upon our initial engagement, we could clearly see the devastating effects the prior engagement had on both armies.  The elements, sickness, as well as battle casualties had reduced our numbers drastically.  However, we found our numerical advantage on the flank served us well.  After pushing the enemy back towards his lines, we were joined by a gun barrage as well as cavalry support.  The Yankees had no choice but to retreat.  They did so in good order, but suffered dearly for it.  I am pleased to report that the enemy was either killed, captured, or sent running.  Our exhausted ranks had only the energy to push them back to their original lines.  Although pursuit and total annihilation of the enemy would have been preferred, we did all we could.

I would like to congratulate the few veterans who were able to fight along with the several fresh fish who were recruited along the way.  These green soldiers obeyed orders and fought as well as could be expected.  We hope to make these men a permanent staple within Company E.

Sir, this concludes my after-action report of the engagement at Narcoossee Mill.  However, rumor has it that we may be called to move towards Palm Coast within the next few weeks to meet the enemy who are harassing vital supplies lines just south of St. Augustine.  We will surely need all the support we can get to meet the enemy once again in our efforts to drive him from our beloved State of Florida.

Until our next fire,

I am, your obedient servant,

Capt. W. A. Alonzo

2nd Florida, Co. E

Florida Brigade