Doc. 22.-the army of the Potomac.
The change of commanders.
General Hooker was relieved of the command of the army at his own request. In taking leave of his soldiers, he issued the following address:General order no. 65.
headquarters army of the Potomac, Frederick, Md., June 28, 1863.
In conformity with the orders of the War department, dated June twenty-seventh, 1863, I relinquish the command of the army of the Potomac.
It is transferred to Major-General George G. Meade, a brave and accomplished officer, who has nobly earned the confidence and esteem of the army on many a well-fought field.
Impressed with the belief that my usefulness as the commander of the army of the Potomac is impaired, I part from it, yet not without the deepest emotion.
The sorrow of parting with the comrades of so many battles is relieved by the conviction that the courage and devotion of this army will never cease nor fail; that it will yield to my successor, as it has to me, a willing and hearty support.
With the earnest prayer that the triumph of its arms may bring successes worthy of it and the nation, I bid it farewell. [135]
General Meade's address on taking command
headquarters of the army of the Potomac, June 28, 1863.
General order no. 66.
By direction of the President of the United States, I hereby assume command of the army of the Potomac.
As a soldier, in obeying this order, an order totally unexpected and unsolicited, I have no promises or pledges to make.
The country looks to this army to relieve it from the devastation and disgrace of a hostile invasion.
Whatever fatigues and sacrifices we may be called upon to undergo, let us have in view constantly the magnitude of the interests involved, and let each man determine to do his duty, leaving to an all-controlling Providence the decision of the contest.
It is with just diffidence that I relieve in the command of this army an eminent and accomplished soldier, whose name must ever appear conspicuous in the history of its achievements; but I rely upon the hearty support of my companions in arms to assist me in the discharge of the duties of the important trust which has been confided to me. 