Veteran Reserve Corps

Men Wanted for the Invalid Corps notice, 1863

The Veteran Reserve Corps (VRC) was a military reserve organization created during the American Civil War by the United States Department of War. It was initially known as the "Invalid Corps" and was established to make use of soldiers who had been wounded or were otherwise physically unfit for active field service but were still capable of performing light duty.

History

The Veteran Reserve Corps was established on April 28, 1863, by General Order No. 105. The purpose of the VRC was to allow soldiers who had been rendered unfit for active combat due to wounds or illness to continue serving in a military capacity. These soldiers were assigned to perform duties such as guarding prisoners, manning fortifications, and performing administrative tasks, thereby freeing up able-bodied soldiers for front-line service.

Organization

The VRC was organized into two battalions. The First Battalion consisted of men who were still capable of performing light duty, while the Second Battalion was composed of those who were more severely disabled but could still contribute in some capacity. Members of the VRC wore distinctive uniforms to differentiate them from regular troops.

Duties and Contributions

Members of the Veteran Reserve Corps were assigned to various non-combat roles, including:

• Guarding prisoners of war
• Manning fortifications
• Performing administrative duties
• Serving as hospital attendants
• Acting as provost guards

Their contributions were significant in maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness of the Union Army by allowing more able-bodied soldiers to be deployed to the front lines.

Notable Members

Several notable individuals served in the Veteran Reserve Corps, including:

• John Lincoln Clem, also known as "Johnny Shiloh," who became famous as a drummer boy and later served in the VRC.
• Martin R. Delany, one of the first African American field officers in the United States Army, who also served in the VRC.

Disbandment

The Veteran Reserve Corps was disbanded after the end of the Civil War in 1869. Many of its members were mustered out of service, while others were transferred to other units or discharged.

Legacy

The Veteran Reserve Corps played a crucial role in the Union's war effort by ensuring that wounded and disabled soldiers could continue to serve in meaningful capacities. Their service helped to maintain the strength and effectiveness of the Union Army during a critical period in American history.

See Also

• American Civil War
• Union Army
• United States Department of War
• Prisoners of war
• Fortifications
• Administrative duties
• Hospital attendants
• Provost guards