DECEMBER 1ST, 1864: In order to cope with powerful rifled batteries erected by Confederates along the Tennessee and Cumberland rivers, Rear Admiral Lee, commanding the Mississippi Squadron, strengthened the forces of Lt.Cmdr. Fitch with the ironclads USS Neosho and USS Carondelet.
Major General Thomas, responsible for halting General Hood's advance on Nashville, wired Major General Halleck this date: "I have two ironclads here, with several gunboats, and Commander Fitch assured me that Hood can neither cross the Cumberland or blockade it. I therefore think it is best to wait here until Wilson can equip all his cavalry."
In the coming, as in the whole Tennessee campaign, the Mississippi Squadron played a key role in covering Union Armies, engaging shore batteries in support of troop movements, and insuring river lines of supply.
--Old B-R'er
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