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found, and, if successful, then march down the road and join me.
General McKenzie executed this with courage and skill, attacking a force of the enemy on the
White Oak Road, and driving it toward
Petersburg.
He then counter marched, and joined me on the
White Oak Road just as the Fifth corps advanced to the attack, and I directed him to swing round with the right of the infantry and gain possession of the
Ford Road at the crossing of
Hatcher's Run.
The Fifth corps, on reaching the
White Oak Road, made a left wheel, and burst on the enemy's left flank and rear like a tornado, and pushed rapidly on, orders having been given that, if the enemy was routed, there should be no halt to re-form broken lines.
As stated before, the firing of the Fifth corps was the signal of
General Merritt to assault, which was promptly responded to, and the works of the enemy were soon carried at several points by our brave cavalrymen.
The enemy were driven from their strong line of works and completely routed, the Fifth corps doubling up their left flank in confusion, and the cavalry of
General Merritt dashing on to the
White Oak Road, capturing their artillery and turning it upon them; and riding into their broken ranks so demoralized them that they made no serious stand after their.
line was carried, but took to flight in disorder.
Between five thousand and six thousand prisoners fell into our hands, and the fugitives were driven westward, and were pursued until long after dark by
Merritt's and
McKenzie's cavalry for a distance of six miles.
During this attack I again became dissatisfied with
General Warren.
During the engagement portions of his line gave way, when not exposed to a heavy fire, and simply for want of confidence on the part of the troops, which
General Warren did not exert himself to inspire.
I therefore relieved him from the command of the Fifth corps, authority for this action having been sent to me before the battle, unsolicited.
When the pursuit was given up, I directed
General Griffin, who had been ordered to assume command of the Fifth corps, to collect his troops at once, march two divisions back to Gravelly Church, and put them into position at right angles to the
White Oak Road, facing toward
Petersburg, while
Bartlett's division,
Griffin's old, covered the
Ford Road to
Hatcher's Run.
General Merritt's cavalry went into camp on the
widow Gilliam's plantation, and
General McKenzie took position on the
Ford Road at the crossing of
Hatcher's Run.
I cannot speak too highly of the conduct of the troops in this battle, and of the gallantry of their commanding officers, who appeared to realize that the success of the campaign and fate of
Lee's army depended upon it. They merit the thanks of the country and reward of the government.
To
Generals Griffin,
Ayres,
Bartlett, and
Crawford, of the Fifth corps, and to
Generals Merritt,
Custer,
Devin, and
McKenzie of the cavalry, great credit is due; and to their subordinate commanders they will undoubtedly award the praise which is due to them for the hearty co-operation, bravery, and ability which were everywhere displayed.
* * * * * * *
I am, Sir, very respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
