1862-09-15Camp near Brookville, MD
September 15th I862

Dear Parents

It is with a sad heart that I will sit down to let you know that you are spared the pain of hearing of my being hurt for there is not a scratch about me from the action in which all of the boys from Elk Run came safely through. I have not time to give you the detailed account. Suffice it to say that we drove the Rebels from their position. Our loss in the Regt was 155 killed and wounded. Both of our Lieuts were killed and one private and 5 wounded including my own orderly. The fight was severe but we drove the Rebels back and it is reported that we captured 6 batteries last night. We took the field about 3 oclock and left it just before dark. I help bring Azubel Smith off. He was shot through the breast. It will be sad news to reach his family but such is the fate of mankind. The mail is going out directly and I shall have to cut this short. Genl Rew was killed. Our Maj. was slightly wounded. You will please excuse the brevity of this. I was anxious to let you know I was unharmed as you will probably hear of this battle and will be anxious to learn of our welfare. Please write soon and I will write the first opportunity and give you a description of the battle but have not time this morning.

Yours in love.

J .D. Strait