Gay, I'm sure Alan shares with me the exictment of finding out a little more about this unit. I had some plans to visit micro-film records in and around Clarksville, Tx., and am thrilled upon your find. The people of Texas have a wonderful and rich history second to no other state and anything to further assist in their history would be welcomed.
Upon re-reading the OR's Forrest himself states that many soldiers in his unit had Maynard rifles and other advanced rifles. (A direct contrast to the letter to the newspaper ie shotguns and side-amrs. Perhaps Forrest would get these rifles later or perhaps Company D. was one of the units NOT to receive them?) I had read once that Forrest had himself purchased some rifles and equipment I believe it was from Northern Kentucky for his command. Also in the OR's was the statement from Forrest himself that he was willingly to surrender at Donelson and follow orders. Forrest had ask General Pillow his advice and Pillow stated, "I would cut my way out" and that is exactly what Forrest did. Forrest seemed to imply that anyone who wanted to join him could. I do NOT know as of yet where Company D. was position wise in relationship to Forrests' other companies? Forrest earlier in the year had made some favorable remarks about Captain N.C. Gould and had made a brilliant remark about Lt. L.L. Bailey.
I believe in giving people proper credit for their work and finds so if you two have no objections (Gay and Alan) I would like to mention you in the book if the information is used and you don't mind? Thx