Cushing's More Than Willing to Take a Shot at the Albemarle

JULY 10TH< 1864:  William Cushing, who had proven his ability and daring on earlier expeditions into the Cape Fear River by Wilmington on Feb. 29 and June 23-24, 1864, was more than willing to add the Albemarle's destruction to his resume.  he immediately began planning for this new adventure, destined to become one of the most dramatic and dangerous of the war.\

He wrote Lee: "Deeming the capture or destruction of the rebel ram Albemarle feasible, I beg leave to state that I am acquainted with the waters held by her, and am willing to undertake the task."

The admiral saw in Cushing an officer with the spirit and skill to accomplish this difficult mission, and noted in his closing letter to Welles: "He is entirely willing to make an attempt to destroy the ram, and I have great confidence in his gallantry."

No wonder there is a book on Cushing titled "Lincoln's Commando."

Quite the Thorn in Rebel Side.  --Old B-R'er