In my ongoing research to locate records for United States Colored Troops soldiers who died in action or from their wounds received in the Battle of New Market Heights (September 29, 1864), I happened upon a condolence letter from Capt. Charles F. Eichaker, Co. G, 22nd USCI to Hannah Triford concerning the death of her husband, Corp. Obadiah Triford. The document was among those in Hannah Triford's records seeking a pension for her husband's death and held at the National Archives.
Chapin's Farm, Va, Oct. 18 '64
Mrs. Hannah Triford
Madam
The mournful duty devolves upon me to break to you the news of your husband's death; he died the death of a soldier while gallantly charging on the rebel rifle pits on our front line near Deep Bottom, Va on Sept 19 '64. He was struck by a rebel rifle bullet and died instantly without any struggle. This will indeed be sad news to you, but such is the lot of soldiers and there will be some consolidation if he and thousands of others have not laid down their lives for their country's cause in vain. May you find strength [as] you bear your personal loss.
Accept my heartfelt sympathy in your sad berevement & while tendering my assistance in the line of my official duty, I remain, madam, very respectfully,
Your obdt Servt.
C. F. Eichaker
Capt. Co. G, 22nd USCT
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