A Raw Recruit's War Experiences

"A Raw Recruit's War Experiences" by Ansel D. Nickerson is a recollection from a soldier in the Eleventh Rhode Island Volunteers during the American Civil War, written in the late 1800s. The memoirs explore the life of an inexperienced soldier, sharing light-hearted and serious moments of military life during a troubled period. Nickerson recounts stories from enlisting through different assignments, including camp life, drills, and the emotional impact of seeing the war's effects. Readers gain insight into the friendships, humor, and struggles faced by soldiers, contrasting heroic ideas with the harsh truth of military service. Through tales of heavy knapsacks and funny training accidents, the memoir captures the spirit of a soldier's life, mixing joy and sadness. It emphasizes patriotism and sacrifice, reflecting on being part of the war effort during a key time in American history.