Cedar Creek Report, 12th Connecticut Infantry, 2d Brigade, 1st Division, 19th Corps (OR, 43, 317)

CEDAR CREEK, VA., October 20,1864.

SIR: At dawn yesterday I heard heavy artillery and musketry firing on the left of my position and in the direction of the position of the Eighth Corps. I immediately called my command to attention and marched with the brigade to the left to support the Eighth Corps, who were being vigorously attacked by the enemy. When we arrived in rear of the position occupied by the division on the right of the Eighth Corps we found them badly broken and in fall retreat. We immediately formed line of battle and checked the enemy until both flanks were lapped by the enemy, when we were forced to fall back two miles) which was done in the best order possible under the circumstances. At about 3 p. m. we were ordered to advance, attack the enemy. and reoccupy our former position, which was done in beautiful style, my right with its brigade having the extreme right of the line. At sundown we had occupied our former position and completely routed the enemy.

The losses of my regiment were as follows: Killed-officers, 2; enlisted men, 20. Wounded-officers, 5; enlisted men, 52. Missing, 93.

The officers and men of my command deserve the greatest credit for their bravery and coolness in that trying conflict.

Very respectfully, yours, &c.,

GEO. N. LEWIS,

Lieutenant- Colonel, Comdg. Twelfth Regiment Connecticut Vols.

Adjt. Gen. L. Thomas,

Washington, D. C.