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Mr. Eric J. Wittenberg

c/o Brassey’s Inc.

22841 Quicksilver Drive

Dulles, VA 20166 April 8, 2006

Dear Mr. Wittenberg,

I am writing you on behalf of Norwich University in regard to an ongoing project on Edward B. Williston, Class of 1856.

The university has commissioned noted artist Dale Gallon to paint the action which earned Williston his Medal of Honor at Trevilian Station, June 12, 1864. It will portray Williston and the climactic action where the enemy “advanced to the very muzzle” of the piece he had moved in front of his main battery position. The painting will be displayed in the Medal of Honor room at the military college.

In your book “Glory Enough for All,” you cite Wesley Merritt’s letter of recommendation and Williston’s Medal of Honor file (RG 94, File No. 20120PRD1891, footnote 44, p. 211). We are hoping you could provide us a copy of Merritt’s letter of recommendation as well as any other materials from the Medal of Honor file which are pertinent to Williston’s actions that day. Naturally, we will be happy to pay any costs you may incur.

Your assistance would be much appreciated by Williston’s alma mater and by me. I noted with much satisfaction your use and citing of my 1999 book “By the Blood of Our Alumni.” If you wish, you may contact me by phone (843-651-1885), by email rgpnu66@aol.com, or by “snail mail.”

I look forward to hearing from you and thank you in advance for you help.

Sincerely Yours,

Robert G. Poirier, Norwich 1966

4538 Firethorne Drive

Murrels Inlet, SC 29576

Eric

Those of us who know you, those who have read/reread your body of work know you are not a hack. Your research is exhaustive. You are very passionate & would not except anything less. My only question would be, “When do you find time to sleep?”

Looks like it’s gonna be a good year.

Mike