Sunday, April 12, 1863

Soon after the reviews came marching orders. But first the sick had to be taken to a hospital boat, which would take them up the river to Memphis. Accordingly, they were put in ambulances and taken to the riverfront.

A train of ambulances, loaded with the sick soldiers, made a dreary procession. Each sick man, when taken aboard, had his name checked and then his name, rank, company, regiment, brigade, etc., were given to the authorities on the boat.

Private Stephen P Austin died today at Milliken's Bend. He was from Mt. Carmel and assigned to Company H.