In February 1863, Colonel George Mindil, commanding the 27th New Jersey Volunteer Infantry Regiment, took temporary command of the Brigade at Newport News, Virginia.
The 27th NJ Regiment had set up its bivouac in Camp Burnside at Newport News. The 27th NJ received praise for its camp layout from Congressman John Hill. Congressman Hill wrote a letter dated April 2, 1863 to the Morristown Jerseyman newspaper in which he stated, "The encampment is like a neat little village, the whole being planned and laid out under the superintendence of Colonel Mindil, who has an eye to the comfort of his men, and always makes a point to select a good camp."
Brevet Major General Orlando Bolivar Wilcox wrote to Mindil, "I am proud of your connection with my division, and from the fine appearance and good instruction of your present regiment. I am happy to observe your military talents are still employed with credit to yourself and to the advantage of the service."
Because he had the finest drilled regiment in the 9th Corps, the teenage Colonel Mindil was recommended by the officers and a NJ Congressional delegation for promotion to Brigadier General. President Abraham Lincoln approved Mindil's nomination, but the promotion could not take place at that time because the Senate had placed a limit on the number of generals.
Copyright 1999-2013: Jay C. Richards
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