The Civil War Diary Of Cyrus F Boyd Fifteenth Iowa Infantry 1861-1863 [Illustrated Edition] Introduction: The Civil War Diary of Cyrus F. Boyd, Fifteenth Iowa Infantry, 1861-1863, is a rare and precious historical document that provides a unique perspective on the experiences of a common soldier during one of the bloodiest conflicts in American history. As an orderly sergeant and later a first lieutenant, Boyd had a front-row seat to the progression of the war, from the early days of mobilization to the brutal battles that decimated entire regiments. His diary offers a candid and unfiltered account of the realities of soldiering, revealing the attitudes and activities of both his comrades and commanders. This illustrated edition includes maps, campaign plans, and detailed analyses of actions spanning the entire period of hostilities, providing a comprehensive understanding of the war's impact on the soldiers who fought it. Plot Summary: The diary begins with Boyd's enlistment in the Fifteenth Iowa Infantry in 1861, detailing his journey from civilian to veteran. He vividly describes the training camps in Indianola, Iowa, and the initial excitement and optimism among the troops.

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