February 9, 1865
On February 9, 1865, Robert E. Lee issued General Orders, No. 1 (CSA) announcing that he had assumed command of the military forces of the Confederate States.
GENERAL ORDERS, No. 1.
HEADQUARTERS CONFEDERATE ARMY,
February 9, 1865
In obedience to General Orders, No. 3, Adjutant and Inspector General's Office, February 6, 1865, I assume command of the military forces of the Confederate States. Deeply impressed with the difficulties and responsibility of the position, and humbly invoking the guidance of Almighty God, I rely for success upon the courage and fortitude of the army, sustained by the patriotism and firmness of the people, confident that their united efforts, under the blessing of Heaven, will secure peace and independence. The headquarters of the army, to which all special reports and communications will be addressed, will be, for the present, with the Army of Northern Virginia. The stated and regular returns and reports of each army and department will be forwarded, as heretofore, to the office of the Adjutant and Inspector General.
R.E. LEE
General.
