Second Class Citizens?
There is a growing disquiet amongst the ‘New York Italians’ Brigade soldiery, who have sacrificed themselves bravely for the cause at Bull Run and now Antietam. Having suffered the loss of many comrades killed and wounded, they have noted the high quality of medical services enjoyed by the other Brigades within the III Division.
Many are angered at the comparatively poor service administered to them. The feeling is growing amongst them that the South European troops are deemed expendable and not worth as much to the Army as other American soldiers.
“Why, even the soldiers in the ‘Massachusetts Colored Brigade’ are treated better than us!” said a Utica Volunteer, who asked that his name be withheld.
There is rumour that Officers are taking backhanders whilst equipment intended for their Brigade is being diverted elsewhere. They are looking to Brigadier General Nathaniel Starbuck to get a grip.
By Donotella Noboddi
