June 16, 1863

Dear Father,

Now like others I have seen enough of battle. Men lie dead, shot through the head and everywhere some are barely alive. We see a man wounded & all we can do is give him a cheering word & some water, fix his wound & see someone takes him to the hospital. A Major & Col. were all tore to pieces. No one but soldiers could stand the sight…It seems a miserable useless slaughter. Though some think the Rebs have but little ammunition left, little food & few men, I think they have enough to last 3 months if they get reinforcements from the rear. Don’t expect us home soon.

Some say they will not write until it is all over. But when it is all over I may be gone. This will give you my account.

Give my love to all,

Your Son,

George A. Hammond.