Curtis and his group arrived in Ogdensburg and were given gingham caps to wear as a unit designation until they received their uniforms. Accompanied by two bands, they and others marched off to the Northern Railroad depots and boarded a train for Albany where they became Co. G of the 16th New York Infantry.
They trained in Virginia and took part in McClellan's Peninsular Campaign where Curtis was wounded May 7, 1862, at West Point, Virginia, an important objective with its rail and York River transportation routes.
Major Joel J. Seaver wrote, "Captain Curtis, while urging on his men, was struck by a ball in his left breast, directly over the heart. The ball struck a rib, glanced around and came out his back. Twice he rallied his men after the shot, and, by his presence of mind and bravery, doubtless saved many a valuable life."
This bravery in action along with reluctance to stop after being wounded were benchmarks of Curtis' service. He was really a soldier's officer who would be right there with his men in the front line.
A Brave Officer. --Old B-Runner
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