An acquaintance of mine told me recently of an incident in Dalton during the winter/spring of 1864 where Gen. Johnston put 12 North Carolinians before a firing squad (made up of the condemned men's friends) for desertion. She said they NC men had merely overstayed their leaves.

I know that Johnston put to death some deserters, but have never heard anything about this many at one time.

Just wondering if anyone on this board has heard this story and what you think of the General for doing this. I found it quite harsh, in view of the South's obvious need for manpower at that time.

Glenda