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A Regiment at War: A American Civil War Quest

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Mishar said:
I think this is mainly because we've been pretty good about moving with the construction of our rail lines and guarding those rail lines. Though hopefully the pause in operations should give logistics some time to catch up and ensure a stable supply tail once spring comes.

Best Christmas gift would be if Charleston falls to one of those probes or just surrenders. Not going to hold out hope that it does but it would be nice since we'd have a port to send supplies through.
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Charleston falling this year will be helpful since it will take time to set it up to receive and disperse supplies which the winter would give us and having a shorter land supply chain would help a lot. Also would be another port secured allowing the Union navy to further concentrate.
 
Well that's a lot of South Carolina in Union hands and most of North Carolina. Confederacy troops are being sent somewhere but where I'm not sure. Maybe Longstreet depending on how many he's getting?
 
Well they have also had states taken out of the recruiting pool from capture or no longer being able to shift with the loss of Vicksburg and the blockade on top of all the losses they have sustained and need to keep people back to do work in industry and other areas so hopefully that is limiting what they can field. If we go high end that is 85k that the confederacy has in SC which can outnumber any of the forces deployed, though if they do concentrate they do leave objectives open. But it also feels like they need to do something.

Hopefully Hunter is a better General then Finegin or at least close enough that the numbers will tell because a push from the South is going to draw forces away since they cannot afford Atlanta falling.
 
Basically if you were Lee who is in charge of the Eastern Theater for the Confederacy what would you do with the troops you have? Probably something to turn the tide and try hitting a weak spot.
 
Tempting to exploit the numbers advantage and press the attack, but AFAICT, the troops need time to rest, and it would be wiser to halt now instead of when they are utterly exhausted.
 
If I remember correctly, The Medal of Honor was first introduce during civil war, right? I think it's around 1861? My question is, will Yates be one of the recipient?
 
Quite possibly.

The Congressional Medal of Honor was a very common reward during the US Civil War, and was awarded less commonly over time as a combination of the medal becoming more prestigious, a growth in the number of medals that could be awarded for any given action including less prestigious ones for less extreme examples of valour, and the changing nature of war putting less people in the position to show such valour and having survivors able to speak about it.
 
Skrevski said:
Medal was made in 1862 ITTL, its in one of the updates (i can't tell you which lol)
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It was this one.

A Return to North Carolina - April 12th, 1863 - April 17th, 1863
eumarthan said:
@Skrevski how would the men react if Yates was killed or assassinated by a Confederate Sympathizer
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They were very unhappy when he got hit during the end of the three days battles so I imagine similar to that. I imagine Yates and his Martial Provosts have instilled in the men enough discipline not to riot.
 
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Skrevski said:
It is a slew of issues that range from representation, and the Government, to them, being too controlling, and certainly slavery. No, they will continue to fight for a long while I suspect..."
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Oh boy. Here comes the argument that ACW is more than slavery, it's also about states rights. And then asked, states rights to do what?
 
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The Eastern Theater: Onward to the Capital! Washington in Sight - November 1st - November 15th, 1863
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    • The Eastern Theater: Onward to the Capital! Washington in Sight - November 1st - November 15th, 1863

    ​

    Sebastian had quite a few trains in his life, but he always preferred the comfort of riding on the back of a horse. However, it would have taken weeks to go north; thus, he once found himself onboard a train going north. The steady rocking was getting to Sebastian, as heavy bumps would jolt him and others around as the instability of the rails was felt.

    Sebastian felt terrible for any soldiers traveling along the rails he had had his engineers lay down temporarily as his men pushed towards Columbia. John Barnard's engineers were hard at work replacing them with more permanent rails, but that would take time. Time, fortunately, Sebastian had as his main armies came to a halt throughout South Carolina.

    He leafed through a couple of telegrams, the latest received having pulled into the train station in Goldsboro as he headed north. Several days were spent in Goldsboro, visiting several of the hospitals in the area, walking the cemetery where the brave soldiers of both sides had been buried after the battle back in March as well as speaking to both Generals Horace Lee and John Hatch, getting a report on the ongoings in North Carolina and at the remount center.

    While Union forces held the cities and major towns, several areas continued to be hotspots of rebel activity, with partisans making strikes when they could against Union targets and convoys. Fortunately, policies implemented over the last several months and increased patrols had seen a drop in resistance as news circulated about the continued advancement of Union forces.

    Several partisan groups still existed, with a large group in the swamps north of Wilmington and several more in the border regions of North and South Carolina. A few areas within the interior of North Carolina were also still giving his men issues, mainly where Unionists and Secessionists lived in proximity with each other, several homes and pieces of prosperity had been burned to the ground, and several family members were killed.

    Sebastian had already issued a harsh decree calling for respecting the property of Confederate citizens, with several soldiers having been arrested for not following it. Several protests had come from within the various armies, and a couple of Colonels even resigned, citing the Confiscation Act of 1862 and saying they had a right to do so. It had also caused some grumbles within his higher officer echelons, but none had gone so far as to resign. Sebastian knew it would make some unhappy, but he would rather not have to fight this war for generations to come and hoped that being lenient now would help reduce hardship in the future.

    He knew his enemies in Washington would be coming for him; they always did, especially Butler, stirring everyone who would listen to him. Fortunately, Kearny communicated that he supported Sebastian's orders, as had President Lincoln, giving him all the support he needed. Sebastian also made sure to spell that any slave found was exempt from being protected and liberated, following the Emancipation Proclamation and ensuring that all would finally be freed.

    Turning back to the reports, Sebastian is still worried about the continued resistance within North Carolina and South Carolina. While he had ordered his main armies to halt operations for the winter, planning to give Buford his requested two months at the very least to rebuild his cavalry, Gregg echoed his recommendation after fighting Stuart near White Oak. His conversation with Hatch reinforced his decision, as he was told that it would take at least two months to get both Corps and Devin's division up to full fighting shape, but the longer, the better. Establishing the remount depot in Goldsboro had proven quite valuable; its railroad link to the north now connected to Wilimisburg, making it easier for him to supply his various forces.

    General Hatch had also requested to return to active duty and take command of a brigade or division of either infantry or cavalry, saying he was wasted serving in the rear. The conversation brought up a tricky subject for Sebastian, one he and Thomas had previously discussed before heading north to Washington.

    "General, I hate saying this, but we have to look hard at the strength of our forces in the field. Some Corps are below ten thousand, some close to just above eight thousand in some cases."

    "I know, Thomas, but those units you speak of are also some of our most experienced units, and I fear if we do as I think you are suggesting, it will cause morale issues."

    "Then you oppose combining various units and building up the battered Corps?"

    "It's not something I enjoy, no. Suppose there is anything I have learned over the last few years; it would be the comradery one develops within a regiment and the sense of belonging and unit cohesion found within brigades and divisions that have served together." Sebastian rubbed the back of his neck as he took in a breath. "I'll see what General Kearny has to say on the matter, as I am pretty sure it will come up when meeting with him. However, we should see wounded and new drafts to help with numbers after the next few months."

    Thomas nodded in agreement. "Yes, sir. Also, the next big expiration of enlistments isn't until May, and if the weather breaks like it did this year, we should have a few months of campaigning before that becomes a big issue."

    "People are still signing up, though, correct? I haven't kept completely updated on the matters, but I have heard there is somewhat of a slowdown."

    "That is correct, sir. Some of it is people see the war as coming close to being won, so they don't want to risk being killed or wounded at the end of it. Others are just delusional about the war at this point, and honestly, we can't blame them for the losses and bloodshed we have seen. I have Andrew keeping an eye on things, with him telling me that he does believe many will reenlist, especially if we give winter furloughs as we did last year." Andrew was Captain Andrew Kalman, one of Sebastian's close aides and closer friends.

    "I know that helped with morale considerably over last winter, and as long as the Confederates don't try something over the winter, we should be alright to do so."

    "Colonel Babcock doesn't think they will, and he reports that both Hardee and Jackson took some heavy losses in the recent engagements. However, he believes they have received some reinforcements and could get more with the stalled pushes in Florida and North Carolina."

    Sebastian nodded slowly, having previously read reports by Generals Howard and Hunter on their respective operations. Howard had tried to get support from Eastern Tennessee, but unfortunately, from what Sebastian was hearing, things were quite up in the air in that region. Joseph Johnson had thrown a curve ball at Grant, sending first Simon Buckner, followed on by Alexander Stewart's Corps of the Army of Tennessee, both having knocked back Hooker's "Army of the Ohio" back to Knoxville. Grant had pulled elements from his various armies to move up to reinforce Hooker and looked to be stabilizing the front, but still the matter was not resolved.

    Howard had received about a brigade's worth of reinforcements but could not make much headway against D.H. Hill within Western North Carolina, fighting several small engagements and skirmishes. Sebastian didn't fault Howard; having followed his orders to advance, his army was bunkering down as the weather worsened. Heavy rains and snow made crossing many rivers and streams a significant endeavor. He, however, was more disappointed by Hunter and his endeavors in Florida.

    Hunter had been itching to push further into the Sunshine State. He began within days of Sebastian giving his consent, not waiting for the division of Colored troops he had dispatched to reinforce him. Having been confident of success, it turned out to be overconfidence as the Confederates had indeed shipped in reinforcements as General Bragg and Major General James Patton Anderson arrived to bolster General Finegan's outnumbered Confederates.

    Hunter's push had started strong, pushing the Confederates back from the St. Mary's River and winning a battle at Olustee. From there, things fell apart as Hunter pushed onto Lake City and found Bragg's reinforcements. Hunter suffered a deceived defeat outside the small town. General Truman Seymour led a skillful retreat with Colonel Guy Henry's cavalry, helping to slow down the rebel pursuit. The arrival of Brigadier General William Birney's Colored Brigade had finally ended the Confederate push, Hunter's command limping back into Jacksonville on November 8th and 9th. Two other Colored Brigades arrived over the next few days, solidifying the Union's hold on Jacksonville with over fifteen thousand men now stationed there. Hunter had lost over eight hundred men, with two hundred or more reported as captured.

    Sebastian had the mind to sack Hunter and place someone else in command; perhaps Seymour or another general Sebastian trusted, but he worried about how it would look in the press and others. Sebastian had already relieved several officers of his various commands, replacing them with more competent commanders. There had been some pushback, especially with Butler, but his replacements had proven to be the right call; Sebastian just wondered how long that would hold. "If I were to replace Hunter, who would you suggest take his place, Thomas?"

    "So you are considering it?" Thomas pushed up his glasses, an amused look on his face. "Hrm, a good question."

    "Perhaps, so who would be a good pick in your opinion? I have heard the rumors about your files." Sebastion chuckled as Thomas' expression changed, lowering his head momentarily. "Don't worry, Thomas, I won't say anything more about it. I am glad you keep a pulse on who might or might not make a good commander."

    "Well, locally, you have General Seymour, who has proven he knows what he is doing. However, if you want someone more senior, I might recommend several. General Joseph Reynolds from Sheridan's Corps is an outstanding division commander and has proven himself over the last several years. You could also consider General Napoleon Dana from Sheridan's Corps; Sheridan and previous commanders within the Army of the Potomac highly recommend him. I would recommend General Gibbon from the Second Corps, but General Schofield put him in command of that Corps after Richardson's wounding. General George Crook from the Twenty-Second Corps is also possible; he has held independent command before and proven both to be aggressive and knows when to hold back if needed. You could also send one of our Corps commanders if you decide to merge some of the Corps. It takes away the stigma of losing a command, after all."

    "Interesting list. Do any others stand out?"

    "Well, I can think of one more if you want to switch commanders. Transfer General Hunter to West Virginia and put General Wallace in his place, though General Howard might not like that. If you did that, it might be best to place General Howard in charge of that Department and western North Carolina."

    "Put some thought into this, haven't you, Thomas? Sebastian let out a sigh as Thomas gave a weak smile. "My mind is an enigma, sir. What can I say?" Both men chuckled at this.


    Sebastian hadn't made any decisions on any of the matters, though he had spent several hours contemplating his options as he continued to make his way north. However, all thoughts on those questions and more went out the window as the train finally pulled into Washington on the evening of November 11th; it was slightly snowing as Sebastian waited eagerly for it to come to a stop.

    Stepping down, people waiting around quickly noticed his arrival. Some waved at him, others cheered, while some promptly moved away; some even snubbed their noses at him. "I guess he couldn't please everyone," he said, but he didn't care at the moment as he started glancing around.

    "Talking to yourself, are we now, mister Yates? Strange behavior... strange behavior indeed!"

    Sebastian turned to his left and smiled as Assistant Secretary of War and friend Charles Dana stood smiling at him. "I should have known you would be here. You have a habit of showing up when least expected."

    "Ah, that's my charm, Sebastian! You should know that by now, Stanton sends me where he needs me but has given me some time to spend with my wife, Eunice, and the kids. They came down from New York City a week ago."

    "Well, that's great, Charles; I am happy for you..."

    "Alright, I'll stop making you squirm; you look like a lost puppy." Charles glanced behind him and pointed to a covered carriage. "Of you go! But you are expected at the White House to meet with the President, Stanton, Generals Kearny, and Grant the day after tomorrow!" Charles raised his voice as Sebastian spread off, waving back that he understood. He came to a stop in front of the black carriage and knocked. "Ann Marie?"

    "Better come in, Sebastian. You will catch a cold." The loving voice of his wife penetrated his ears as a small cry exited the carriage as he opened the door and came face to face with his two darling little twins, Miss Samantha, eking out another cry as he quickly climbed in and closed the door. "Meet your daughter and son, Sebastian; they both have been eager to meet you." Ann Marie said as she barely contained her emotions, handing Samantha over to Sebastian, gingerly taking her into his arms.

    "She is darling Ann, just darling." Sebastian held back tears as Samantha wiggled in his arms, cooing and fetching as she met her father for the first time. Another cry emanated to the left of Ann Marie as Sebastian Junior made his presence known, kicking under a blue blanket as Ann Marie reached down to calm him in his little basket. "They are happy to see you, Sebastian. They are so happy to see you."

    Sebastian quickly leaned in and kissed his wife, balancing Samantha in his right arm and wrapping his left around her waist. "They and you look well," he said.

    "Now, Sebastian, do you think I let anything happen to these little ones of ours? Ha! How dare you!" Ann Marie giggled as she sunk into his arm. "I am glad you're home..."

    "Well, home... where are you staying?"

    "With Elizabeth again, Samuel is still down outside Charleston, at least last Elizabeth said. Been working with her to support the Washington City Orphan Asylum between caring for these little bundles of joy."

    Sebastian smiled broadly as he nodded. "Yes, he is still off Charleston, based out of Wilmington with his squadron. Last I spoke with him, he said he would return by late November, taking leave." Samuel Phillips Lee, Vice Admiral, commanded the Atlantic Blockade Squadron, which was tasked with keeping the Confederate port cities blockaded and working with Sebastian and his armies as they moved against the Confederacy. Sebastian had known Lee since landing at Petersburg and worked closely with him for over a year. Ann Marie and his wife, Elizabeth Blair-Lee, had become best friends since then; she and Sebastian had stayed at their house many times, Ann Marie more so than Sebastian. "Good, I am glad you have had such good support."

    "Oh, I have had plenty of help. My mother was in town recently, back home now, and your sister Ellie is still here in Washington, so she stops every other day. Oh, and your niece Emily has also been a major help in becoming the proper lady she is."

    Sebastian shook his head. "She is almost sixteen... my god." He took Samantha's little hand in his and shook it gingerly.

    "Just think, Sebastian, she will be almost sixteen one day."

    "God help us..." Sebastian laughed, grateful to be spending time with his family.


    Two days later, after spending time with Ann Marie and the kids, Sebastian found himself once more in the White House. While he had been there several times, he still felt amazed to find himself in such a position. Walking through halls, always crowded with those looking to get an ear with the President or one of his staff, Sebastian was courteous as many stopped him and tried to stick up a conversation. While waylaid for a good ten minutes, he soon could waggle himself away and find him in a waiting room as the doors opened to let in another man in uniform. "Well, if it isn't the dastardly Sebastian Yates, conquer of capitals!"

    Sebastian mentally pushed back the urge to smirk as he instead smiled at Ulysses S. Grant, fellow Lieutenant General and commander of the Union efforts in the West. "I hate that that is becoming a thing; how are you, Ulysses?"

    "Well enough, Sebastian, well enough, but call me Sam, what my friends call me. It's better now that the business around Knoxville seems to be cleared up. Johnson punched Hooker pretty good."

    "I read the reports on that nasty business, it seems. I haven't had it exactly easy myself. Took a lot of losses pushing towards Columbia."

    Grant grimly nodded, pulling out a cigar and lighting it up before pulling out another to offer Sebastian; he politely declined. "I'm Afraid this business we find ourselves in isn't pretty nor glamorous now, is it?"

    "Fraid not now. How is Hooker doing, by the way?"

    "Pain in my ass, I right tell you, Sebastian. Would have been glad to have you kept him, I tell you that!"

    Sebastian let out a slight laugh as he shook his head. "He certainly has a chip on his shoulders, but he is a good fighter when he keeps his head."

    "Well, I will be honest with you, I have half a mind to replace him, been a damn headache, and almost lost Knoxville if I hadn't pushed up McPherson and Blair from Sherman's Army of the Tennessee."

    "That Frank Blair?" Sebastian asked, being Elizabeth Blair's brother.

    "Aye, he took over Sherman's Fifteenth Corps when he took up my spot at the head of the army. Done a good job so far."

    "Hm." Sebastian looked and breathed, strangely glad he wasn't the only one to deal with the dilemma of possibly relieving someone from command. Granted, he considered Hooker a friend and thus was a bit apprehensive about him being relieved. "I have a problem much like Hooker in a way. General Hunter pushed forward before reinforcements could reach him in Florida, but he got bushwacked when Bragg came up with reinforcements. Not a huge debacle, but if he had waited, he would have had more men on hand."

    "Get rid of him. There is a difference between being aggressive and being an idiot. Sounds like Hunter kits the latter side of things."

    "That easy, hm?"

    "Ha! You got me there. Hooker is aggressive to a fault, the man outstretched his resources too much, and Buckner got the drop on him, but damn, the man does fight. I don't know if he can command an army anymore."

    "He did well in the Valley before he was wounded, but maybe that took something out of him?" Sebastian had certainly been tempered after his near-death back earlier in the year and been fortunate in a quick recovery. He even admitted while he still felt the call to head to the front, his fears of getting shot and killed remained, more so now that he was a father. "If you do replacement, who are you putting in his place?"

    "James McPherson has proven himself, especially in the last few months. We need men we trust as we push the last few miles to Atlanta." Grant took a long puff of his cigar and nodded to himself as the doors to the study opened. Out walked Philip Kearny, smile beaming. "Gentleman, if you don't mind, it's time to stop standing about and get in here. We don't want to keep the President waiting now, do we?"

    Both men chuckled as Philip offered his only hand in a firm shake in turn to each man. They walked into the next room where President Lincoln, Secretary Stanton, and Major General Henry Hallack waited for them. The President immediately stepped up, shaking hands. "Sam, Sebastian, it was mighty fine to see you both. I hope the travel wasn't too much of a burden on you."

    "A bit bumpy, Mister President, but not much of an issue," Sebastian replied, returning the President and shaking and smiling.

    "Good, family doing well? A couple of cute little ones, I might say."

    "Yes, sir, and I heard you and Mrs. Lincoln walk over to check on them several times; I really can't thank you enough."

    "Have to take care of our soldiers, Sebastian, both on and off the battlefield. Besides, it's good to stretch these legs."

    "Better you walk there than pacing around the cable room, staying up to all hours of the night. You know you can leave the war to Kearny and me, right?" Stanton, always the forceful personality, babbled, almost rebuking the President, though Lincoln just chuckled.

    "He gets mad when I interfere, though I have to say I have done pretty well staying out of the way, hm Philip?"

    Stanton glared at Kearny as he spoke to respond. "For the most part, Mister President. I will say here and there, though, you do dabble, I say."

    "Have to keep a pulse on things; we can't let it get completely away from us. Sam, Sebastian, please sit, sit." The President sat behind his desk as the others found a chair to sit on, and Lincoln continued. "He is also mad," glancing back at Stanton, "that I want an expedition to secure Texas. Banks just took Brownsville, you know."

    "I am still of the opinion we should march on Mobile. It would make it even harder for the Confederates to get supplies, especially from the French," Grant interjected despondently.

    "He is also mad. I can't please everyone now, can I?" the president mused as Stanton stirred. "Mister President, I know why you want us to move into Texas; it makes sense with Napoleon going gung-ho in Mexico, but we should be looking to our war before we look to others."

    "I think things are moving quite well. We are close to Atlanta, and our forces are ready to take the field after a few month's rest, I do say. Damnit, man, we have Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, parts of Mississippi and Louisiana, and South Carolina, thanks to Sam and Sebastian here. Nothing to sneeze at Edwin."

    Stanton waved his hand at the President, shaking his head as Lincoln chuckled. "Napoleon now has nearly seventy thousand troops in Mexico and conquered most of Central Mexico. Kearny and Stanton agree that he seems to be moving to take the rest as quickly as possible before the war here is over."

    "That's a hell of a lot of men to send; he feels confident doing so with Prussia next door?" Sebastian asked, shifting in his seat.

    "He knows we won't do anything while we fight each other, and while Prussia is undoubtedly a threat, he has a formidable Army and Austria as allies. Napoleon doesn't seem to care about them right now." Stanton answered, crossing his arms. "Concentrate on cutting off the flow of supplies and march on Atlanta, sir."

    "Onto Richmond, onto Atlanta, it's like a chorus line, right?"

    "Mister President...."

    Lincoln waved his hand. "I heard you, Edwin, but we must remember while we fight our fight, who will help those who can't help themselves? That's why I wish to move on, Texas gentlemen. It might be folly, but that's what I rightly believe. By god, they want to establish a monarchy in Mexico! Right on our doorstep, sirs! We fought a war to get rid of such a thing, fought to see independence. You three, most of all, know we fought for Texas, fought against Mexico when it threatened our freedom, and by god, President Monroe declared we would not support another monarch nor interference within the western hemisphere. Shall we give that up? How can we hold our fight for freedom of all forms when we can't stand up for those who see their freedom about to be taken away? I don't rightly know, gentlemen."

    A hushed silence settled momentarily as five of the country's most potent leaders mused over the President's words. Having gotten up, he was now staring out of the window. Finally, he spoke, "Well, now that I have your minds running, shall we move on to plans to end the war?"

    Kearny leaped at the diversion, "Right, well, sir, General Yates's armies are poised to march on Atlanta from the east and Grant from the north and west. Between the two, we are nearing half a million men, another hundred to hundred & fifty thousand or so in other departments and theaters. Estimates are the Confederates can't match that by half, and their arms production suffers from all accounts."

    "Johnson is said to have a hundred thousand or so against me, though I think that is spread out and most likely includes militia and state troops. Still a tough nut to crack." Grant followed up, still smoking his cigar. "Also has established some excellent defensive positions, though we have room to maneuver. Sherman has maybe twenty-twenty-five thousand arrayed against him if they haven't shifted troops away from him; not sure what all Banks is up against."

    Sebastian spoke up next, having thought deeply about what the President had said. He had listened to his words; they were striking an accord with the people of Mexico and those they fought for within America's borders. He cleared his throat slightly. "I estimate Jackson and Hardee have around fifty thousand before me, Longstreet and Franch another twenty-thirty thousand, and then another twenty or thirty thousand spread throughout lower Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida. The real question is, do we try and occupy everywhere, or do we push on Atlanta and hope its fall sees the war's end."

    "The rebels don't seem to show signs of giving up, least not from the levels of resistance we have seen in occupied states," Kearny stated. "They tie down whole armies worth of our men."

    "The people of America have always been firey; it is what has helped make this nation as it stood before this grand upheaval." Lincoln let out a sharp sigh as he turned back to face everyone. "Many wish to see the taking of Charleston, the birthplace of rebellion as many call it. I, of mind, wouldn't either, but if it does fall, I don't want it destroyed, at least as much as we can help. We must hold that the southern states will once more be a part of these United States; all commanders must remember that."

    "I agree, sir, but it doesn't mean we shouldn't strike back if they strike. Take away their ability to produce weapons and food, and that will see the end of this nasty business." Firey as ever, much to the President's point, Stanton relied as his voice rose.

    "I think Sebastian and Sam have enough men to achieve pushes supporting both objectives. I have a plan, if I might?" everyone looked to Keanry as he moved to a map already hanging up for their use.

    "By all means, Philip. After all, that's why I have you here," Lincoln chuckled as everyone looked onward.

    Kearny nodded a slight chuckle in his voice. "Right, I think Sebastian pushes on Charleston and maybe Savannah with one of his armies; the others continue their advance toward Atlanta. One is for Atlanta, and the other goes into southern Georgia, which is linked up with a push by Sherman as he moves toward Montgomery in Alabama and to Atlanta from the south. Complete surrounds it as Grant moves his main forces, sweeping down from the north. Of course, we could also send Sherman toward Mobile and then head north, but as much as taking the port would help, without Bank's support, I think we should concentrate him on the "southern" advance."

    "I concur. Let Sherman march to Montgomery, taking their first capital and keeping forces away from Atlanta. Sebastian marching on Charleston does the same: spreads them out and concentrates on our strengths." Grant gave his consent as Kearny turned to look at Yates. "Your opinion, Sebastian?"

    "it does sound like a sound strategy, sir. However, I must bring up a point that I know I am dealing with and am sure Sam is as well. Enlistments and understrength units."

    Grant grimaced. "May and June could hurt on that front, but I have confidence many will re-up when the time comes."

    "So am I, not as concerned about that as I am about some of my Corps down to eight or nine thousand men—barely a strong division. My staff and I discussed it, but I am not sure I agree with possibly combining various Corps into one formation and strengthening them that way."

    "Hard choice there, but I trust your judgment there, Sebastian; taking away someone's command is always hard. Something I know both of you are wrestling with." Kearny nodded to both Sebastian and Grant, an all-knowing gaze upon them.

    "Talking about Hunter and Hooker, are we?" Lincoln spoke again, giving a fake juncture of surprise. "Certainly not something to consider lightly, but as I have found out with those in this room, if change is needed, a change is necessary. Is Hooker still giving you pain in the backside Sam? Also, can't say that Hunter hasn't propped up to brother me before either."

    "There you go again. Mister President, I once more must tell you that this is a problem for myself, the War Department, and General Kearny. You can't keep interfering, sir, I swear..."

    "Oh, mad at me again. You see, Sam and Sebastian, I am just musing about Edwin. Run the war; you fellas are doing a fine job." Lincoln's calmness and disarming attitude caused a round of chuckles as Stanton fumed again. It was an odd relationship between Lincoln and Stanton, Sebastian noticed, but both seemed to make it work with them leading the Union onwards to hopefully eventual victory. It also came as no surprise to Sebastian that the President already knew what he and Grant were dealing with.

    Grant went first as Sebastian nodded to him in response. "To put it bluntly, sir, while Hooker is a good fighter and has a keen mind, he lashes out quickly, too quickly, I say. If you want an attack dog, he is suitable for it, but as a level-headed Army commander, I am doubtful. He lost something when wounded, became more reckless, and seemed to care more about his reputation and regaining renown."

    "I have seen the letters we all have to add to that," Lincoln smirked. "He certainly has a way of trying to make him the spotlight and blaming others. I'm glad you all put that behind you, or I might be in trouble! Why it reminds me of this one time..."

    Stanton shook his head vigorously. "If you go into a story, so help me..."

    "Ha!" Lincoln laughed, followed by the others. "Alright, Edwin, I'll spare you this time." He paused as he grinned. "Just know this, gentlemen: You have my full confidence; I finally have a team I fully trust and believe will truly see that this country is united once more." He pulled out a watch and slapped his knee. Well, I am afraid I have to get ready for a political shindig, as they call it. Of course, you are all invited, as are your wives. Could use your support assuredly, looking to put forth an amendment soon enough, one that could change the face of this nation."


    Hey all, we got pretty motivated over the last week, and we are back in the saddle—not nearly as long as our previous wait! Get some deep views on things Sebastian has to deal with at the top level and a look at the strategic level. I hope you all enjoy it, and I hope my family meeting wasn't too sappy! Thank you all for continuing to read and being as supportive as you have been, as this quest is nearing the five-year mark.
    How should the plan be developed for advancing into the last remaining Confederate territory?
    • [] Follow the first suggested plan: Advance one Army towards Charleston and Savannah, another towards Atlanta, and a third into southern Georgia to meet up with Sherman.
    • [] Change the plan and send two Armies towards Atlanta and one towards Charleston and Savannah.
    • [] Change the plan and send all three Armies towards Atlanta.
    • [] Don't commit just yet; wait to figure out things later on and maybe discuss it with others before doing anything.
    Should Sebastian take the steps of reforming the Armies, combining them into stronger Corps and disbanding several?
    • [] Yes he should, we will need all our strength for the upcoming campaigns and should march out with that in mind.
      • [] Disband from all our Armies & Formations: (You can select more than one)
        • [] I Corps, AotP - Reynolds [Current Strength: ~8,000 Men]
        • [] II Corps, AotP - Gibbon [Current Strength: ~9,000 Men]
        • [] III Corps, AotP - Birney [Current Strength: ~7,500 Men]
        • [] IV Corps, AotCF - Sturgis [Current Strength: ~10,000 Men]
        • [] V Corps, AotP - Hancock [Current Strength: ~10,000 Men]
        • [] VI Corps, AotP - Sedgwick [Current Strength: ~9,000 Men]
        • [] VII Corps, AotR - Rodman [Current Strength: ~9,000 Men]
        • [] VIII Corps, AoWV - Canby [Current Strength: ~11,000 Men]
        • [] IX Corps, AotR - Willcox [Current Strength: ~9,000 Men]
        • [] X Corps, DotS - Terry (Current Strength: ~8,500 Men]
        • [] XI Corps, DotS - Schurz (Current Strength: ~7,500 Men)
        • [] XII Corps, AotCR - Williams [Current Strength: ~11,000 Men]
        • [] XVIII Corps, AotR - Getty [Current Strength: ~11,000 Men]
        • [] XXII Corps, AotCR - Cox [Current Strength: [~9,000 Men]
        • [] XXIV Corps, AotP - Sheridan [Current Strength: ~10,000 Men
        • [] Cavalry Corps, AotP - Gregg [Current Strength: ~10,000 Men]
        • [] Cavalry Corps, AotR - Buford [Current Strength: ~8,500 Men]
    • [] No, we shouldn't; while it would maybe physically strengthen them, it could damage morale and cohesion developed over the years.
    Should Sebastian replace General Hunter in Florida? And with who?
    • [] Yes, he should; man is a loose canon, and we need officers to know when and how to act following orders.
      • [] Replace Hunter from the list Thomas gave:
        • [] Major General Joseph J. Reynolds [From XXIV Corps]
        • [] Major General Napoleon J.T. Dana [From XXIV Corps]
        • [] Brigadier General George Crook [From XXII Corps]
        • [] Brigadier General Truman Seymour [In Florida]
      • [] Replace Hunter from the list of Corps Commanders:
        • [] Major General John Reynolds [I Corps]
        • [] Major General John Gibbon [II Corps]
        • [] Major General David B. Birney [III Corps]
        • [] Major General Samuel D. Sturgis [IV Corps]
        • [] Major General Winfield Scott Hancock [V Corps]
        • [] Major General John Sedgwick [VI Corps]
        • [] Major General Isaac P. Rodman [VII Corps]
        • [] Major General Edward R.S. Canby [VIII Corps]
        • [] Major General Orlando B. Willcox [IX Corps]
        • [] Brigadier General Alfred H. Terry [X Corps]
        • [] Major General Carl Schurz [XI Corps]
        • [] Major General Alpheus S. Williams [XII Corps]
        • [] Major General George W. Getty [XVIII Corps]
        • [] Major General Jacob D. Cox [XXII Corps]
        • [] Major General John Buford [Cavalry Corps, AotR]
        • [] Major General David McM. Gregg [Cavalry Corps, AotP]
      • [] Transfer Hunter to West Virginia and replace him with Major General Lew Wallace.
        • [] Place Major General Oliver O. Howard in command of the Department of West Virginia and Western North Carolina to limit Hunter's control to just West Virginia.
        • [] Place Hunter in command of the Department of West Virginia and Western North Carolina.
    • [] No, don't replace him; he is too much of a political hotbed, and he did technically follow his orders.
    Should we support Grant replacing General Hooker?
    • [] Yes, while it's not our command, it might make his choice a lot easier and earn us some more respect with Grant.
    • [] We should remain silent at this time, its not our command, not our fight.
    • [] No, we should instead stick up for General Hooker, he is friend and we should support him.
    Should the men be given furloughs to return to their families over the winter?
    • [] Yes, we should continue what we did last winter; it not only raised morale but saw much return to the colors when enlistments were up.
    • [] Yes, but on a smaller scale than the previous winter, the Confederates might still try something against us.
    • [] No, we are nearing the war's end and need everyone we have, as ranks are already depleted.
    Should we agree to General Hatch's request and send him to an Army?
    • [] Yes, he has done good work and should be given a chance to lead in the field again. Send him:
      • [] To the Army of the Potomac
      • [] To the Army of the Roanoke
      • [] To the Army of the Cape Fear
      • [] To the Army of West Virginia
      • [] To Charleston
      • [] To Florida
    • [] No, he is doing excellent work where he is and should continue to do so there.
    Should Sebastian go to the Ball?
    • [] Yes, it is another opportunity to meet with various Senators and Congressmen, support the President, and network.
    • [] No. Instead, go home and spend the night with Ann Marie and the kids; politics can wait.
     
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  • Threadmarks
    • Skrevski said:
    Sebastian also made sure to spell that any slave found was exempt from being protected and liberated, following the Emancipation Proclamation and ensuring that all would finally be freed.
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    Did Sebastian turn into a Confederate recently? :p

    Skrevski said:
    Hunter had been itching to push further into the Sunshine State. He began within days of Sebastian giving his consent, not waiting for the division of Colored troops he had dispatched to reinforce him. Having been confident of success, it turned out to be overconfidence as the Confederates had indeed shipped in reinforcements as General Bragg and Major General James Patton Anderson arrived to bolster General Finegan's outnumbered Confederates.
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    I told y'all we shouldn't trust Hunter!

    Skrevski said:
    Hunter's possible replacement
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    I'd pick either Dana or Reynolds. Gibbon would be good, but as stated, he was just recently put in charge of a Corps because the previous Commander was wounded. Rn, that Corps needs Gibbon more.

    Skrevski said:
    "Better come in, Sebastian. You will catch a cold." The loving voice of his wife penetrated his ears as a small cry exited the carriage as he opened the door and came face to face with his two darling little twins, Miss Samantha, eking out another cry as he quickly climbed in and closed the door. "Meet your daughter and son, Sebastian; they both have been eager to meet you." Ann Marie said as she barely contained her emotions, handing Samantha over to Sebastian, gingerly taking her into his arms.
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    Hooray!! Wholesomeness and children ahoy!!

    Skrevski said:
    "Get rid of him. There is a difference between being aggressive and being an idiot. Sounds like Hunter kits the latter side of things."
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    On that, we agree, Grant. We agree completely. At least Hooker has the decency to be good at his job. :V

    Skrevski said:
    "I have seen the letters we all have to add to that," Lincoln smirked. "He certainly has a way of trying to make him the spotlight and blaming others. I'm glad you all put that behind you, or I might be in trouble! Why it reminds me of this one time..."

    Stanton shook his head vigorously. "If you go into a story, so help me..."
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    I love the back-and-forth between Stanton and Lincoln, it's just a delight to laugh at.

    Skrevski said:
    Should Sebastian replace General Hunter in Florida? And with who?
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    We've already got confirmation from so many people that Hunter is a liability, so yes, we should replace Hunter. I'd say a pick from Thomas's list that isn't Gibbon since Gibbon is needed as a Corps Commander.

    Skrevski said:
    Should we support Grant replacing General Hooker?
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    Not our command, not our fight. No need to play politics here, especially with both sides being friends.

    Skrevski said:
    Should Sebastian go to the Ball?
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    I think it's fine for Sebastian to go to the ball. It's just one night, and I'm sure we'll be staying in DC for some time to help develop the war plans.
     
    Duke William of said:
    Did Sebastian turn into a Confederate recently? :p


    I told y'all we shouldn't trust Hunter!


    I'd pick either Dana or Reynolds. Gibbon would be good, but as stated, he was just recently put in charge of a Corps because the previous Commander was wounded. Rn, that Corps needs Gibbon more.


    Hooray!! Wholesomeness and children ahoy!!


    On that, we agree, Grant. We agree completely. At least Hooker has the decency to be good at his job. :V


    I love the back-and-forth between Stanton and Lincoln, it's just a delight to laugh at.


    We've already got confirmation from so many people that Hunter is a liability, so yes, we should replace Hunter. I'd say a pick from Thomas's list that isn't Gibbon since Gibbon is needed as a Corps Commander.


    Not our command, not our fight. No need to play politics here, especially with both sides being friends.


    I think it's fine for Sebastian to go to the ball. It's just one night, and I'm sure we'll be staying in DC for some time to help develop the war plans.
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    Looks like my writing got mashed up in that first part, will rewrite it tomorrow.
     
    First time making a plan, hopefully I format it correctly.

    [X] Plan: the Final Push
    -[X] Follow the first suggested plan: Advance one Army towards Charleston and Savannah, another towards Atlanta, and a third into southern Georgia to meet up with Sherman.
    -[X] No, we shouldn't; while it would maybe physically strengthen them, it could damage morale and cohesion developed over the years.
    -[X] Yes, he should; man is a loose canon, and we need officers to know when and how to act following orders.
    --[X] Replace Hunter from the list Thomas gave:
    ---[X]Brigadier General Truman Seymour [In Florida]
    -[X] We should remain silent at this time, its not our command, not our fight.
    -[X] Yes, but on a smaller scale than the previous winter, the Confederates might still try something against us.
    -[X] Yes, he has done good work and should be given a chance to lead in the field again. Send him:
    --[X] To Florida
    -[X] Yes, it is another opportunity to meet with various Senators and Congressmen, support the President, and network.

    Going over the plan point by point:
    -(Strategy) I don't see any reason to deviate from the proposed strategy in Georgia. In regards on how to force the Confederacy to surrender, the Union's best bet is to capture the opposing armies, which this plan accomplishes by cutting off their lines of retreat. Without their armies, the Confederates have no ability to contest the Union army from pushing to wherever they relocate their government. At this point, with the vast majority of their industrial and supply base cut out from underneath them, I imagine the Confederate armies are maintaining their cohesiveness mostly due to momentum; the moment they stop fighting and moving, I can imagine their armies falling to bits.
    - (Army Reform) One of the strengths of Yates' army is that its generals work well together. Understrength corps are undesirable, but I firmly believe that Yates' selected officers can coordinate and combine their smaller units to achieve the necessary objectives. No need to undermine the morale of the officers (since disbanding a corp means someone loses their command) and the enlisted (corp identity is a point of pride).
    -(Hunter) Hunter's gotta go. Sebastion's opponents and naysayers are already harping on him for firing incompetent generals, one more added to the pile won't break the camel's back. One of the reasons the Eastern Army works so well is because our generals can trust their peers in the field to be competent. I'm mostly promoting Seymour since he's already there and understands the lay of the land, but am open to other suggestions aside from Gibbons (who was just promoted to Corp command).
    -(Hooker) No need for us to taint our relationship with Hooker by stepping in for Grant. He handles his army and theater, we handle ours. We sure aren't asking him to help with Hunter
    -(Furlough) Not issuing furloughs is probably the most contentious component of my plan. I have high confidence that the Confederates are going to make a desperate offensive during the winter. Confederate high command isn't stupid; they have to see the writing on the wall. If Yates and Grant combine their armies, the Confederates are basically sunk. They can either make a last stand at Atlanta, where they will be sieged with no chance of relief or sufficient strength to break out. Or they can try and break through the Union perimeter, but frankly there's nowhere left for them to go. Furthermore, their army discipline and cohesiveness has to be absolutely shot; if their armies stop fighting, they might end up dissolving. Their best chance is to muster the majority of their strength in early winter, then strike at an unprepared Union army.
    The Union army is also stretched out occupying former Confederate territory. Not letting soldiers go on furlough will definitely hurt morale and impact re-enlistment rates, but this is a make or break moment for the Confederates and I dare not give them the chance at a reversal.
    -(Hatch) I don't see a problem with rewarding a competent commander. Promoting Seymour in Florida means there's a slot open we can send him to. If he's done good work, we should give him the opportunity to do more good work.
    -(Party) This is Sebastian's first time seeing his kids dangit, he deserves an evening off from politics and war. Ann Marie deserves the chance to see her husband as well!
     
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