I am currently deployed to Iraq with the US Army. As an additional duty I am preparing a Historical Staff Ride for use by Fort McPherson, GA some five miles form the Battlefield of Utoy Creek, GA upon my return from Iraq.

July 30 1864: MG William T. Sherman, Commander of the Military Division of the Mississippi,USA Ordered MG John. M. Schofield to cross the north branch of Utoy Creek Georgia on or about 1 August, 1864 and drive through the Confederate defenses to the Railroads and cut off the supply lines to Atlanta. What happened next, took almost a week and has been ignored as both Sherman and Schofield minimized the importance of the action. However, reading the daily reports via telegraph to Washington tell a different story of the actions importance.

I am collecting information about the engagement and would appreciate any information you might be able to contribute. My e-mail is PerryBennett@yahoo.com. Of interest is any entry in diaries or individual unit reports on the Battle of Utoy Creek Georgia beginning on 1 Aug 1864 throught 7 August 1864. Over 800 US (Union) soldiers were kileld here plus wounded up to 1,200. At least 18 Confederates were killed during the main attack on August 6 but others were as well from Claytons, Division and Andersons Divisions of Steven D. Lee's Corps (CSA) North of The Sandtown Road.

Any information about individuals involved would be appreciated wiht a copy of the reference to record. A copy of the staff ride and collected information will be placed in the Army Center For Military History (CMH).

Highest Regards,

PERRY BENNETT
MAJ, LG
C4 LNO to MND-SE (3rd UK Division)

18th Corps (ABN)
Basra, Iraq
APO, AE 09342