Diary of an Enlisted Man

"Diary of an Enlisted Man" by Lawrence Van Alstyne is a glimpse into the Civil War through the firsthand account of a soldier. The compiled diary entries capture daily life, offering a unique perspective on the experiences of ordinary enlisted men often absent from formal histories. Starting with the author's choice to enlist, the narrative moves to the initial days spent in a recruitment camp which shows camaraderie with fellow soldiers, mixed with the emotional weight of leaving loved ones. The soldier's uncertainty and sense of duty are both evident as he describes adapting to military service, shedding light on the personal battles faced by soldiers preparing for war.