Here is a short Civil War story I wrote, in diary entries. I really hope you enjoy, please comment. And, I don't know what's up with the spacing
September 11
1862
Diary-
We have left the camp, finally. It was a dismal, muddy place. We are all glad to be rid. Some of the men say that we are coming up on the Rebels, this excites everyone. It feels sometimes like we are never going to see their grey backs again.
Sorry my entries will be so short. It is just marching as of now. Endless marching.
As always,
Jacob A. Fields
Private
September 12
1862
Diary-
We march. I quickly realize how I detest this. It is just one foot in front of the other, constantly. Nothing else much happens. The band plays a lively march. I feel energized in the morning; the air is so fresh here. One day, after all this is over, perhaps I shall live in here in the Shenandoah.
To the last step,
Jacob A. Fields
Private
September 13
1862
Diary-
Blue Ridges in view. Oh, the sight! I wish I could bring everyone back from home here. Rocky, and the leaves are starting to turn to gold. I shall definitely think of making a home in this gorgeous place.
Across the Mountains and forever,
Jacob A. Fields
Private
September 14
1862
Diary-
The mountains are beautiful as always, especially at sunset and sunrise, when the golden light makes the hills glow. We are all in awe. There is more word of us gaining on old Lee. These thoughts make it difficult for me to keep up my mood.
For the Union,
Jacob A. Fields
Private
September 15
1862
Diary-
There are many towns in this area, Middleburg and such. The town of Harpers Ferry lies near, where the armory is. They say that Lee is bound to attack it soon, and I think it would be wise of him to do so, unfortunately. I read newspapers and I am in awe of their numbers.
A fight is imminent, this is fact. We are grouping together. I hope it does not come soon. I write my letters to Mother and family with shaking hand sometimes. I miss them so, it is like a hole in my chest that will never heal. I wish they could come and see this glory, these lands.
For my dear family,
Jacob A. Fields
Private
September 16
1862
Diary-
We march upon a valley like no other. Cornfields and prairies are abundant. There is a gorgeous creek where I sit and dip my feet. The waters are deep and cool. There is a town nearby, farmhouses dot the hills. The waters are golden from the sunset.
We are with some other brigades now. A battle is on the horizon. We are all a bit restless. I write more letters, but they make me anxious. I don’t know if I am ready. It is in God’s hands now, and we pray he chooses well. I have little to say except that. Everything feels to be surreal, the trees and the waters. It is such a beautiful ground to fight on. The sun is setting now; I am running out of light. The mountains in the distance sit as if they are great powers here to witness the fight.
Night falls soon. I wish well for my family and my comrades, may we live to the next day, the next fight, and the end of this War. I dearly hope we fare well.
To God, glory, America forever,
Jacob A. Fields.
PS: The creek I sit by goes by the name Antietam Creek. It is beautiful.
The day that followed was the single bloodiest day in American history, the battle of Antietam. 23, 000 are dead, wounded or missing by the end of the battle. Jacob A. Fields does not survive the day; he goes down as a hero. His comrades bury him and his things on the banks of Antietam Creek. His diary and letters are sent off to his family.
September 17
1862
Rest in Peace
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