The "Confederate Guards" of Lauderdale County became first Co. "G", 8th Mississippi Regt. Officers and men organized at Rushing's Store on April 15, 1861, electing J. G. Knox as Captain. The company was called into service of the State of Mississippi on Aug. 7, 1861, members leaving home at that time to start their twelve-month term. The regiment was turned over to Confederate authorities on Oct. 18, 1861, Enterprise MS.

James M. McNeese was among original members of this company, which was designated Co. "I" when the regiment reorganized for the war. Wounded (broken left arm) at Franklin TN, Nov. 30, 1864, he was captured in a hospital there on Dec. 17, 1864. McNeese was sent to Rock Island IL before being forwarded to Point Lookout MD for exchange. He was part of a group of Confederate POWs released on exchange at Boulware's Wharf, James River VA, Mar. 23, 1865. After a short stay in a hospital at Richmond VA, he would have been sent home on furlough, the war coming to an end in the meantime.

John McNeese transferred to this company at Bridgeport AL, Feb. 26, 1863.

William B. McNeese joined Co. "I" at Bridgeport AL, Jan. 15, 1863. He was captured during the retreat at Franklin TN, Dec. 17, 1864, and died of pneumonia at Camp Chase OH, Feb. 17, 1865.