Major Armistead's Fort McHenry Battle Report-- Part 5: "Did Their Duty To My Entire Satisfaction"

"The Bombardment continued on the part of the Enemy until seven OClock on Wednesday Morning, when it ceased and about nine, they Ships got under weigh and Stood down the River.  During the Bombardment which continued 25 Hours, (with two slight intermissions) from the best calculation I can make, from fifteen to Eighteen hundred Shells were [thrown] by the Enemy, a few of them fell short, a large proportion burst over us, and threatening destruction, many passed over, and about four hundred fell within the Works.

"Two of the public buildings are materially injured, the others but slightly.

"I am happy to inform you (wonderful as it may appear) that our loss amounts to only four Men Killed, and twenty four Wounded, the latter will all recover.  Among the Killed, I have to lament the loss of Lieut. Clagget, and Sergeant Clemm. both of Capt. Nicholsons  Volunteers, two Men whose fate is to be deplored, not only for their personal bravery,, but for their high Standing, amiable Demeanor, and spotless integrity in private life.

"Lieut. Russel of the Company under Lt.  Penington received early in the attack a severe contusion in the Heel, notwithstanding which He remained at his post during the whole Bombardment.

"Was I to name any individuals who signalized themselves, it would be doing injustice to others, suffice to say,  that every Officer and Soldier under my Command did their duty to my entire satisfaction.

"I have the honor
to remain respectfully
Your Ob. Servt

H. Armistead
Lieut. Col. U.S.A.  (Evidently, he had already been promoted in the ten days since the battle.)