Thursday, May 21, 1863

This evening regular rations were distributed to the Union troops, many of who had been without bread and coffee for two weeks or more.  These came from a base of supplies established on the Yazoo River, on Sherman's right.  Initially after the invasion into Mississippi, Warrenton, about six miles below Vicksburg, had been used as a supply base. But this new base upon the Yazoo gave direct communication with the North and its limitless supplies.

Also this evening, General Grant sent the following order to his corps commanders, and in order to insure its prompt execution, it was also communicated to the commanders of divisions and brigades:

HEADQUARTERS IN THE FIELD  

May 21, 1863. 

GENERAL: -- A simultaneous attack will be made tomorrow, at 10 o'clock A.M., by all the army corps of this army. 

During this day army corps commanders will have examined all practical routes over which troops can possibly pass. They will get in position all the artillery possible, and gain all the ground they can with their infantry and skirmishers. 

 At an early hour in the morning a vigorous attack will be commenced by artillery and skirmishers. The infantry, with the exception of reserves and skirmishers, will be placed in column of platoons, or by flank if the ground over which they may have to pass, will not admit of a greater front, ready to move forward at the hour designated. Promptly at the hour designated, all will start at quick time, with bayonets fixed, and march immediately upon the enemy, without firing a gun, until the outer works are carried. Skirmishers will advance as soon as possible after heads of column pass them, and scale the walls of such works as may confront them.

By order of

U. S. GRANT
Major General Commanding.