In an sombre yet emotional address, General John Holt-Oglethorpe mourned the loss of his brother Michael, commander of the Vermont Brigade, who sadly fell at Fredericksburg.
However he rallied himself to highlight the exploits of his division in that infamous engagement.
General De Krackere read a citation at a lavish field ceremony where every expense was covered by Holt-Oglethorpe, ho was able to fully expended the costs against his tax returns (He was a pre-bellum tax adviser). In the press briefing to which Army Commander & Statehouse Officials are invited at which it was stressed.
- De Krackere's superb Brigade effort, at Fredericksburg.
- The idea for this celebration was Holt-Oglethorpes and the money for it is coming out of Holt-Oglethorpe's own pocket,
- Initiative was mine,
- Holt-Oglethorpe will be creating Divisional Artillery and Cavalry assets
- The 'Blue Cresent Division' fully complied with Army orders although some others might not have seemed so keen, at Fredericksburg.
- Holt-Oglethorpe will be investigating the plight of our boys being held captive and will look into a Prisoner exchange programme.
- Battle streamers to all Regiments in the division.
