From what I can tell, the information is incorrect.

The Citadel Cadet Battery (aka "Morris Island Battery" and later "Star of the West Battery") which was manned by 39 cadets, and that fired on the Star of the West, were not in the same regiment as Branch's *infantry* regiment called the 1st S.C. Rifle Regiment. It is *possible* that he was in command of three companies from this regiment on Morris Island which were stationed there to protect the artillerymen from marine assault. The three companies of this regiment that were present were the German Rifles, the Zouave Cadets, and the Vigilant Rifles.

However, the battery Commander was Major P.F. Stevens. He is credited with giving the order to fire, and this was at the direct order of S.C. Governor F.W. Pickens. The order was this: "Fire into any vessel which attempts to pass up the channel." Major Stevens gave the command, "Fire!", at 7:15 AM.