In the heady days of the rush to arms in 1861, comparatively few Southern men volunteered for service in the artillery - most preferred the easily accessible glory of the infantry or cavalry. Given that field artillery was invariably deployed in front of the troops that it was supporting, the artillerymen were exposed to a high level of enemy fire, and losses were significant - at such moments, the drill and discipline installed on the training ground were all that held fear and cowardice at bay. This title guides the reader through the life and experiences of the Confederate cannoneer - where he came from, how he trained and lived; how he was equipped, dressed and fed; and how he fought.