The Water Valley Rifles Fifteenth Mississippi Infantry Company F, the Water Valley Rifles, was formed in the spring of 1861, just after Mississippi seceded from the Union. Before their brave volunteers left for war, the townspeople held a farewell ceremony, giving this sentimental speech: Deep and thrilling are the feelings that cling on the noble spirits who gallantly resolve to strike for our alters, our firesides, God and our native South. The glory that has ever shed its lustre over Mississippi Volunteers will not now be dimmed. It is hard to nerve the soul for the last sad farewell and hard to listen to the stern mandates of duty. We know the Water Valley Rifles will be true to their proud name, and the cause of justice, of liberty and truth is yours. May the protecting care of the God of battle be over you, nerve your gallant hearts and crown your noble efforts with liberty and peace, while a glad and deep gratitude of happy hearts will greet your joyous return. The Water Valley Rifles patriotically left for war, thinking it would be short and easy. Four years, and a half million combined casualties later, they were still fighting. This is their story. Includes more than 75 pictures, maps, and illustrations, plus census information, roster with brief bios, casualty list, compiled accounts, letters, and complete four year narrative. Excellent source for local, state, and national historians, genealogists, and Civil War enthusiasts.