Maxcy Gregg (American National Biography)

At the battle of Fredericksburg on 13 December 1862, Gregg and his brigade occupied a position well behind the front line, but Federals penetrated into the Confederate position and surged against the South Carolinians. As he rode in front of his men, Gregg fell mortally wounded by a ball that passed through his side to his spine. A. P. Hill and Stonewall Jackson paid emotional visits to Gregg as he lay dying at the Yerby house, "Belvoir." Early on 15 December Gregg sent an entirely typical telegram to his governor: "If I am to die at this time, I yield my life cheerfully, fighting for the independence of South Carolina." Unlike many of his contemporaries who hotly sought secession, Maxcy Gregg converted his convictions into military service. His success in the field was at least as notable as that of any politician-turned-soldier in Lee's army.