Military Commision Examining the Case of
Elisha Denbow, 77th OVI
His request for an honorable discharge:
Tod Barracks
Columbus, Ohio March 26, 1866
General
I have the honor to request that an order be issued granting me an honorable discharge. I had learned that my wife was very sick and about the first of January I made an application for a furlough, which was approved by the Regimental and Brigade Commanders, but was returned disapproved from General Head Quarters on the ground that there were too many of the Regiment already on furlough.
My wife being quite low I felt so much desire to see her that I left for home on the 19 of February without leave intending to return as soon as I could under the circumstances; but the Regiment having been mustered out on the 8th of March, it overtook me at New Orleans as I had been fifteen days crossing the gulf on a Schooner. I came with it to Columbus. I find I have been mustered out as a diserter and that I cannot get an honorable discharge without an order from Head Quarters.
I have been in the service nearly five years and my officers will bear me witness that I was never absent without leave before. I have always endeavored to do the duty of a Soldier faithfully: was in the battles of Shiloh, Fallen Timbers, Marks Mills, and wherever else the Regiment has been engaged, and have I believe been always considered a good soldier. I was ten months a prisoner of war at Camp Ford where I suffered much for the Country. I admit I did wrong in leaving without a furlough but the condition of my wife and my failure to get a furlough, with a knowledge that my services at this time could be easily dispensed with, I trust will be considered some excuse.
I am willing that a just amount of my pay may be stopped as a punishment if I can only get an honorable discharge; and I submit my case to you with a hope that it will be granted.
Elisha Denbow
Late Sergt. Co. C, 77th Ohio V.I.
Letters of Support:
Tod Barracks
Columbus, Ohio March 26, 1866
Genl
I have the honor to state before leaving Texas Company Commanders in the 77th Regt. Ohio Infy Vols received instructions to place all men absent without proper authority on the muster out rolls as deserters and as Srgt. Denbow had been so absent for several days he was thus mustered.
Sergt. Denbow has always been a faithful soldier was never absent without leave before and as he fought bravely at shiloh and distinguished himself Gallantly at the battle of Marks Mills Arkansas I would be pleased so see some clemency shown him in this case.
Very Respectfully,
Your Obedient Servant
Thomas Wiseman
1st Lieut C. "C" 77th O.V.V.I
Comdg Company