At some point in early 1864 company officers were required to take and pass a oral examination by a board of review. The board consisted of officers selected by brigade commanders known to be procificent in tactics, drill and correct practices in camp and field. If I understand, each officer on the board was permitted to produce his own list of questions. Obviously candidates who could not read or write proficiently were at an immediate disadvantage. Some elected to resign their commissions rather than to stand before the board and attempt to answer questions.

Up until this time becoming an officer in the Confederate military was something like accepting a position as a church officer today. There were no examinations, no texts to study and nothing to do other than to accept your commission and make an appearance when expected.