War Diaries (May 24) (nonfiction)
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Diaries
Van Buren Oldham: May 24, 1864
Although our time is counted from the 23rd we were not really mustered into the service until this day three years ago. Three years of soldiering works quite a change. I was then a stout robust young man, but now one would take me to be at least thirty and my health is considerably impaired. Out of the number who taken the oath with me on that day but few are left of the old company now. They have been killed, disabled, discharged, died, not a few deserted. It was my intention during the last two years to quit the service when this time came round, but the war has not yet closed and the service of every man is required. Besides I can not leave without being reported a deserter and considered as such. Feeling very unwell this morning. I had my gun, blanket, c[artridge] box and [hatchet] in the ambulance. The division did not go to Dallas but turned in the direction of Marietta. I went off the road a short distance and got a dinner and a few onions to carry to my men. Walking to overtake the Brig[ade] I met it coming back. I guess the enemy are pressing our rear or it may be that Johnston intends fighting them here. We moved back three miles west into the woods and camped. It is raining and we are stretching our blankets to protect us during the night.
—Martin Van Buren Oldham, Company G, 9th Tennessee Infantry ("The Hickory Blues") (diary)
- https://www.utm.edu/departments/special_collections/E579.5%20Oldham/text/vboldham_1864.php
- https://www.utm.edu/departments/special_collections/E579.5%20Oldham/text/vboldham_indx.php
Frank W. Springett: May 24, 1917
... Yes we did have an awful storm Sunday night. It was alright under canvas I can tell you. We were lucky to get a good tent so the water did not come in, but in some it was awful they were washed out. It did rain and no mistake, and it lasted about three hours.
I am sorry to say I shan’t be home for Whitsun. What a shame, and I was looking to go home ever so much. Still I suppose I shall get a leave before I go across the pond. I am afraid I shall be wanted across there, even if the fighting finishes soon. It will be a long job I am afraid.
It is a grand day here today. We are still very busy with bayonet fighting and gas helmets and plenty of Company Drill. I am used to canvas life now, but it is not so nice as billets. We have to parade at 6.30 in the morning. The grub we get is a trifle better now, but of course I have to spend all my money I get on cleaning stuff and food. We are having some sports for Whitsun so perhaps it won’t be so bad a holiday. I don’t think I have any more to say this time so I will close ...
—Private Frank W. Springett, D Company 1ST Platoon. 22nd Training Reserve, St. Albans, Herts (letter to his brother Sid)
George Beck: May 24, 1943
Today’s news is that the Americans have landed another division on the island of Attu, and the Japs are being driven right into the mountains. Nothing worth mentioning is happening in Russia at present. Weather today is lovely. Departure of Unter Officer and arrival of a new fellow. Roll on peace, wonder when this damned war will finish, dropped my pocket watch in a wagon and its gone to Prauge.
—George Beck,1st Battalion The Duke of Wellington's Regiment, prisoner of war (diary)
In the News
Fiction cross-reference
Nonfiction cross-reference
- George Beck (nonfiction)
- Frank W. Springett (nonfiction)
- Martin Van Buren Oldham (nonfiction)
- War (nonfiction)
- War Diaries (nonfiction)