Yes it is amazing in looking at the number of Saline County soldiers in Hawthorne's, Monroe's, and Crawford's units as well as others, that deserted on the retreat from Little Rock. Many eventually returned but for them, the threat of an advancing Union horde through the heart of Saline Co and their homes was more important than staying with the army on its retreat. Many evidently went and made arrangements for their families and homes and returned to their units afterwards, when they had the opportunity.