Mr. Meadows,

The rank of Fourth Sergeant would have been one of five Sergeants in a company of Infantry. He would have been normally in the first platoon (of two platoons) and in line of battle, stood behind the company and behind the left of the first platoon. His duties and responsiblities during battle was to be a "file closer" et al to ensure good order and discipline was maintained in the ranks and that fire control and distribution of fire were maintained. He ensured that soldiers loaded and fired their weapons in an efficient manner and that no one fell out of ranks unless required to as a result of wounding or a legitimate weapons malfunction.

Please do not confuse MODERN rank with that of War Between the States Era rank. The duties and responsiblities are not always the same.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Respectfully,

Gerald D. Hodge, Jr.
War Between the States Historian
Historian: 39th Georgia Volunteer Infantry Regiment
http://39thgavolinfrgt.homestead.com/39thHomepage.html