My great grandfather, and the man for whom I was named, John (Jens) Ritland, served in the Civil War with the 32nd Iowa Infantry, Company K, from 1862 until 1865. Late in his life, he related his experiences in the war to my grandfather, great uncle, and a local writer for publication in two central Iowa newspapers, The Story City Herald, and The Roland Record. The narrative was printed in installments in 1922, five years after his death. With the exception of an occasional editor's note from myself, and the organization into chapters, what follows is the story exactly as it appeared in those newspapers. I will be adding links with additional information from time to time. I hope you enjoy this story, and welcome your suggestions and comments.
-John C. Ritland e-mail:
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