James D. Porter, Confederate Military History, a library of Confederate States Military History: Volume 7.1, Tennessee
Clement Anselm Evans, Ed.

[128] skirmish line, the assaults made by the Federal troops being received behind intrenchments. General Johnston coming on the field observed the skirmish line in front of Vaughan's brigade hotly engaged, having first driven the enemy's advance from the field, then repelled a desperate assault by reinforcements, and he turned to the gallant commander of the brigade and asked, ‘What command is this in your front?’ Vaughan's face was lighted by the enthusiasm of battle, and with pride in his brave fellows he replied, ‘That is the Thirteenth and One Hundred and Fifty-fourth Tennessee of my brigade, Cheatham's division.’ ‘And who,’ asked the general, ‘is in command of that line?’ The answer was, ‘Lieut.-Col. John W. Dawson.’ Turning to the division general, Johnston said: ‘I never witnessed such a display of skill and courage, and never saw troops under such discipline and control.’ Every movement of Dawson was under observation, in full view of the commanding generals of the army, the corps, the division and the brigade. Such an opportunity is of rare occurrence. Dawson did not know whose eyes were upon him; his lofty courage, sense of duty and patriotism alone animated him, and this display at Resaca was made by him on every battlefield of the war where he fought. Col. Sidney S. Stanton, Twenty-eighth Tennessee, who fell in this battle, had been conspicuous in many engagements, was greatly distinguished at Chickamauga, had attained State distinction in civil life, and was recognized as a rising man. Though he deprecated war, he carried into it the coolness and courage of his race, and by his personal example stimulated his command to action.

By his light
Did all the chivalry move
To do brave acts.

At Calhoun, Cleburne reported, he moved to his left and rear to meet a force threatening Walker's right. Polk's