There were many units with "Sharpshooters" incorporated into the name in both armies. However do not assume that these units were made up of the elite men who filled the Sharpshooter battalions formed later in the war. Only the best of the best or the cream of the crop were chosen to serve in the Confederate Sharpshooter battalions. Not only did they have to be excellent shots, they had to be 1st rate soldiers. Many took demotions to be members of the Sharpshooter battalions. The men of these battalions were taken off the line and underwent extensive training in a variety of subjects. They could be compared to todays Army Rangers.

It's a great story that has not got the attention that it deserves.