Army of the Potomac - Grand Reserve Division

Item DOC-8618

Description

Original Civil War document written in period ink and war dated.


Headquarters, Grand Reserve Division
Army of the Potomac
Stafford Court House, Virginia

January 21st 1863

Special Orders No. 11

Commanders of Corps, Divisions and Brigades will see that in case of an action their troops are well informed at the proper time in regard to their relative positions which they have to take in line of battle. They will by all means possible ascertain what ground they have to occupy, what forces of the enemy are against them and where they are posted, so as to make their arrangements accordingly. Troops must be formed right or left in front according to circumstances. But they must also know how to deploy by inversion to the right or left, whatever may be the order of march. Before going into actions, the troops must be held close together and formed in columns in mass to facilitate the duties of Commanders and to have them ready for any movement and they must be prepared to move quickly if ordered to the point of attack or defense.

Of Brigades, Divisions, and Corps one part should be kept in reserve to be used at the right time and the right point.

All Regimental Brigades and Division Quarter Masters have to be with their trains and will be made responsible for all disorders.

Commissaries will make all efforts to have their commands supplied with provisions at the proper time, so that no delay occurs in the execution of the movements ordered.

By Order of Major General Sigel

[signed]
T. A. Meysenburg
Assistant Adjutant General

Headquarters, 1st Division, 12th Corps
Near Stafford Court House, Virginia
January 26, 1863

Official:
[signed] William D. Wilkins
Captain and A. A. G.

Official:
H. B. Scott
Captain and A. A. G.

Major Scott
29th Pennsylvania Volunteers

Special Order Command Reserve Division

Special Order 11
January 21st 1863

Formation of Troops

Received January 29, 1863