Official Records of the Rebellion

Report of 27 April - 4 May - 25 June - Indorsement of 9 July

354 [Indorsement.]

HEADQUARTERS FIFTH PROVISIONAL CORPS,

Harrison’s Landing, July 9, 1862.

Respectfully forwarded for the information of the major-general commanding. I was present at the skirmish of the First Maryland Battery with the enemy, and have to commend the admirable manner in which it was maneuvered and served, subjected as it was to a hot fire from various directions, and from some guns at pretty close range. I was struck with the coolness of the men and officers, who I believe were for the first time under fire.

I also saw Captain Benson at Hanover Court-House, where his services were invaluable, not more in the action than in the after operations of destroying the bridges over the South Anna. I commend Captain Benson to favorable consideration of the commanding general.

F. J. PORTER,