Fred L. Lederguber to Richard Yates

To the Hon. Richard Yates

Governor of Ills.

Sir

Having served nearly a year in the 12th Regt. Missouri Volunteers, since I left Ills and had the pleasure of waiting on you at Springfield Ills., I take this opportunity of asking a favor of you, which I then foolishly declined; namely, I should like to be promoted to the Ills service, where I served as 1st Lieut in the 9th Reg in the three months service. Nearly a year ago, when at Springfield Ills, I thought the danger in Missouri was eminent, and I was determined to meet the enemy on the first occasion regardless of position. I have since, with deep regret, found out, that it is a very embarrasing position for an officer in the Missouri service, who was born and raised in Ills. and who is justly pround of what Ills has done in this war, not only in battle, but also through the energy of its executive department, so much in contrast with Missouri. Outside of this, I always would be prefer, serving as a volunteer in my own native State, where a just executive eye sees and watches vigilantly, that justice is done to every soldier. During these eleven months I have served

in a Regt which has gained a reputation for its bravery in battle and its patient endurance of hunger and hardships and I may say that the two companies A and B from Belleville Ills. everywhere sustained their reputation for bravery and endurance surpassed by none in the Regt. As Riflemen and skirmishers this Regt. has a high reputation in the whole southwest army. I should prefer such a Regt. because I have, during a march of 1100 miles through an enemy's country, become theoretically and practically acquainted with this branch of the service on different occasions.

Any promotion to the Ills. service whether Infantry or cavalry would be preferable to my remaining here and would be hailed with pride.

I would, however most respectfully request you, should you be kind enough to think of my promotion, not to put aside or overlook any officer more deserving or meritorious or preferred by the respective Regt.

Hoping that this meet you well and that I do not trespass to much upon your time and patience I remain your most obedient

Fred L Ledergerber Capt. 12th Mo Vol

Comdg Comp. B.

from Belleville Ills.

Camp of the 12th Regt. Mo Vol

Helena Ark July 19th 1862

any comunication you would be kind enough to send please address

care of Major Hugo Wangelin

Comdg 12 Mo Vol.

S.W. Army

Capt. F. L. Ledergerber

12th Mo Vols

Is an Illinoisan, but connected with a Mo organization. Desires promotion in an Illinois Regiment. Gives long history of services rendered. &c.

G & U's sent