Rebellion Record: a Diary of American Events: Documents and Narratives, Volume 2.
Frank Moore, Ed.

Having arrived at the island, Captain Myers proceeded at once in his yawl, with Major Smith, with a load of shell and powder, being received with cheers by Captain Thom, of the C. S. marines, and the sailors and soldiers, who at once carried the supplies to the batteries. The enemy had fired some thirty odd rounds of shell and round shot, which sank in the sand, and were used by our gallant sailors in returning fire. The explosion of the enemy's shells did no other damage than slightly to injure one man in the leg.

The steamers immediately commenced landing their guns and provisions, during which time the enemy again opened fire, the shot falling short, but being returned with great effect. It is supposed the attacking steamer, the Massachusetts, was hulled three times, and a shell was seen to explode over her decks, which, it is presumed, did great damage, as she immediately hauled off, and put for the Chandeleur Islands, a distance of twelve miles from our batteries. Great credit is due to Major-General Twiggs and Captain Higgins for the expeditious and prompt manner in which this island has been fortified and defended.

The following is a list of the officers who were attached to this expedition: Captain E. Higgins, commanding; Lieutenants Warley, Thom, and Dunnington; Surgeon Lynch; Purser Semple; Midshipmen Reid, Stone, Comstock, Dalton, and Robey, with 65 sailors and 85 marines.

After taking possession of the island, Captain Higgins detailed the following officers, with the marines and sailors, to hold and defend it: Lieutenant Warley, commanding; Lieutenant Thom, of the marines; Surgeon Lynch, and the midshipmen. After the enemy had retired, the steamer Swaim arrived with Lieutenant-Colonel H. W. Allen, of the Fourth Regiment, from Mississippi City, with three companies. Major Smith is now in command, fortifying the island, and a larger force may shortly be expected. So much for our first naval brush with the enemy, in which it is but just to say that our officers and men all acted with the greatest spirit and gallantry.--N. O. Picayune, July 10.