The Story of the Thirty-second Regiment, Massachusetts Infantry

A diligent former officer has gathered the voices of his comrades to create a vivid portrait of the 32nd Massachusetts Infantry. Drawing on letters, recollections, and official reports, the narrative captures the regiment’s daily rhythms—drill, discipline, and the quiet heroism of men far from home. It offers listeners an intimate glimpse into the camaraderie, the losses, and the steadfast purpose that bound these soldiers together.

The story begins on the isolated island of Fort Warren, where the unit first assembled under the watchful eye of Colonel Dimmock. In cramped quarters and harsh weather, raw recruits were forged into a fighting force, their early trials marked by the muffled sounds of artillery drills and the constant anticipation of deployment. The account details their first movements out of the fort, the march toward the Potomac, and the uneasy transition from garrison life to the front lines.

Interwoven with anecdotes from surgeons, sergeants, and even the regiment’s “immortal Topsy,” the book preserves the human side of war—moments of humor, fear, and resilient hope—allowing today’s listeners to hear the echoes of a bygone generation.