Gents: Just wanted to toss in a nickle here - I have been studying the 4th WV for several years, and talked with Terry Lowrey at the WV Archives who is working on a regimental history - there appears to be some evidence that the 4th WV lost their regimental colors at Vicksburg in the assault on the 27th Lousianna lunette on 19 May 1863, only to have them returned by a member of the 13th US regulars a day later who told them to "see that you take better care of your rag next time"...Terry Winschel at the Vicksburg NPS has also validated that story with this research and files of original letters donated by the veterans post war. Similiarly we have no evidence that the 4th WV lost their colors at Missionary Ridge - I have the letters of Capt Grayaum, commander of H Co who was later elected to major and served out 14 months filling in for Maj Hall who was killed at Vicksburg - Capt Grayaum is a very detailed writer and makes no mention of losing the colors at Mission Ridge. Just thought you would like to have what info I had. Thanks for your good work.
Cheers
Phil Hatfield PhD
Founder, Loyal State Rifles Living History Group