Handwritten war dated endorsement, signed as president “A. Lincoln,” dated July 20, 1863, in Lincoln’s hand, on a 3.75 x 4.5 off-white slip. Lincoln writes, “Submitted to Sec. of War & General-in-Chief.” Notation done in another hand under endorsement reads, “Colonel Charles G. Harker - as Brigadier General.” Charles Harker graduated from the United States military academy in 1858, entered the 2d infantry, and became 1st lieutenant of the 15th infantry, May, 1861. He was promoted captain, October, 1861, became lieutenant-colonel of the 65th Ohio volunteers, and colonel in November, 1861. He was engaged in the battle of Shiloh and the siege of Corinth and the battle of Stone River, and was recommended for promotion, but did not receive it until he had still further distinguished himself at Chickamauga and Chattanooga. He was made brigadier-general of volunteers and commanded a brigade under General Howard in the campaign in Georgia, and held the peak of Rocky Face Ridge, May 7, 1864, against determined efforts of the enemy to dislodge him. Harker was killed at the battle of Kennesaw Mountain on June 27, 1864. In fine condition, with red ink notations along top edge, with a paraph touching first letter of endorsement, light toning, heavier along top, horizontal crease along bottom portion and all writing bold and legible. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
