Kirby - Great information in regard to the consolidation and elimination of soldiers. I have come across many soldiers that were 'let go' in 1863 and it appeared to be their age. I just assumed they couldn't keep up and the Government decided to take care of the problem. I knew about the cap on Federally backed soldiers and the mass elimination of soldiers, but never put 2 and 2 together. Its like the arrowhead in the FedEx logo (between the E and x). You never see it until someone points it out and from then on, it sticks out like a sore thumb. Thanks.

Craig