The raids stayed with Jock. A set of images that he"d recall throughout his long life. The column of Cherokee Mounted Rifles behind Stand Watie and the flag of the Cherokee Braves. The subdued racket of cavalry getting underway. The rhythmic creak of saddle leather and chafing harness. A discordant chorus of metal fittings adjusting as the men settled in the saddle for the raid.
He would not forget the dead and wounded returning from battle.
The Rifles, dressed in any clothing they could find. They were low supply priority for CSA Quartermasters. The slouch hats, some with CSA badges. Other heads covered by stained, worn butternut kepis. Here and there, the flash of a yellow-striped trouser leg.
These were the memories he"d share only with Jim. To retell it to someone who hadn"t been, t
