When The Drums Stop

PrefaceThe Civil War of the United States is one of the darkest times in our history. Family and friends alike fought for and against each other. A nation divided by political, economic, and ethical issues turned to violence to resolve their long-standing dispute. Four years of unfathomable bloodshed left much of the United States in ruin, but with darkness came an overwhelming and undeniable light that shone through the heroic deeds of brave men and women alike who were determined to see this great nation move forward and become a beacon of hope for the world. My motivations for this book came from my Grandfather, Bill Roach, who discovered a direct ancestor that not only fought through the last two years of the war but who survived it. Anderson Roach was born in Tennessee and just prior to coming of legal age he selflessly joined the Union Army, Eighth Tennessee Volunteer Cavalry assigned to Fox Company. Although this is a work of historical fiction I have done my best to follow Anderson's footsteps through the conflict and attempt to illustrate the many hardships he would have endured. As a former U.S. Marine, I am no stranger to the demands placed upon a military man and the great strain on one's mind, body, and spirit. Anderson himself participated in nearly forty-seven recorded engagements with Confederate forces during his two-year tour; many of which lasted for several days at a time. I am dismayed to say that although I did not cover every engagement I have tried to cover those that were most significant for his unit and the war effort. So, it is that I hope I have captured some of Anderson's experiences and emotions through the trials of Civil War era combat, the bonds that he undoubtedly forged, and the terrible pain of loss he most certainly would have experienced on a regular basis. We salute you Anderson Roach and thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your great sacrifice. You will not be forgotten.