Manuscript DS, signed “Jno. Withers,” one page, 7.75 x 9.75, August 22, 1862. Extract of Special Orders No. 196, in part: "The reports of the Fort Donelson disaster having now been received and considered, it is impossible to acquit Brig'r General G. J. Pillow of grave errors in judgment in the military operations which resulted in the surrender of the Army; but there being no reason to question his courage and loyalty, his suspension from duty is removed, and he will report to General B. Bragg for orders." In fine condition, with a small edge split to one fold.
Pillow controversially failed to exploit a temporary breakthrough of Union lines by his troops which might have allowed the Confederate garrison of Fort Donelson to escape at the Battle of Fort Donelson on February 15, 1862. By order of Confederate President Jefferson Davis, he was suspended from command by order of Jefferson Davis on April 16 for 'grave errors in judgement in the military operations which resulted in the surrender of the army.' Eventually reinstated, he would go on to lead a brigade in Major General John C. Breckinridge's division of the Army of Tennessee, commanded by General Braxton Bragg.
