The following is transcribed from the New York Times, dated October 20, 1862;

​

GEN. VEATCH'S CONGRATULATORY ORDER.

HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, FOURTH DIVISION, BOLIVAR, TENN.,

Thursday Oct. 9, 1862.

 

          The General is desirous to congratulate the troops of his command on the brilliant victory at the battle of the Hatchie. On no field, since the war began, has better fighting been done. The forces of the enemy, greatly superior in numbers, were posted in the very strongest positions, and commanded by those veteran rebel Generals, VAN DORN and PRICE. You met them; you fought them; you drove them; you defeated and routed them, capturing a battery and hundreds of prisoners. You compelled them to seek shelter on the east side of the Hatchie. Here the first brigade came to your support, and with HURLBUT's Fighting Fourth Division united, you drove them again from their last strongholds, and forced them to a hasty retreat! While we rejoice in victory, we regret the loss of many brave men. Let us honor the memory of our fallen comrades, and transmit to their friends the story of their noble deeds. The wounded who survive, will carry their battle scars, which will speak more eloquently for their bravery and daring than any words can do. A battery of four splendid brass field-pieces, captured by this brigade, has been intrusted to your keeping by the Major-General commanding the division. These pieces -- manufactured in rebel workshops -- will be made to do service for the Union in the hands of BOLTON and BURNAP. Officers and men of the Second Brigade, you have the confidence of your Generals, and the respect and esteem of all loyal citizens. Let your future good conduct maintain the high reputation you have gained. Remember that you belong to Harlbut's Fighting Fourth Division. That what he commands, you will obey; what he orders, you will execute; where he leads, you will follow, with full confidence of honor and victory.

 

By order of Brig-Gen. J.S. VEATCH,

​

​