Matthew how about the "Graybeards", men over 45 (even as old as 80) who were formed into an Iowa regiment to do garrison and guard duty like the VRC and the IC.

Did they wear the usual darker uniforms, or did they were the sky blue uniforms of the VRC, do you know?

Hey about the other young officer in the photos, with the sword, is there a possibility he could be cavalry or is this an infantry uniform coat?

I don't think he was VRC, he is another unnamed vet in the family album with the VRC vet, so there must be a family connection somewhere but they were most likely from very different regiments.