The Lieutenant

The Lieutenant chronicles a young unnamed Union lieutenant’s wounded tale of his life in the Army of the Potomac during the spring and summer of 1863. Motivated by a desire to end slavery and a quest for glory, the lieutenant abandons his studies at Yale to join the army. Despite his initial zeal, the lieutenant soon discovers the realities of war—the endless marching, drilling, and mindless patrolling. On one night, the lieutenant spots the enemy moving in the distance, discovering Stonewall Jackson’s march around the Union flank, but is unable to prevent disaster. Witnessing the rout of the army and fleeing for his life, the lieutenant finds himself alone in the forest and debating his future. Steeling himself with a pledge to do his duty and a hope to prove himself in the next battle, the lieutenant rejoins his men and continues the war. Dreaming of home, but prepared to give the ultimate sacrifice for his country, the lieutenant marches on.