GENERAL ORDERS, No. 66.
HEADQUARTERS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
June 28, 1863.
In conformity with the orders of the War Department, dated June 27, 1863, I relinquish the command of the Army of the Potomac. It is transferred to Maj. Gen. George Meade, a brave and accomplished officer, who has nobly earned the confidence and esteem of this army on many a well-fought field.
Impressed with the belief that my usefulness as the commander of the Army of the Potomac is impaired, I part from it; yet not without the deepest emotion.
The sorrow of parting with the comrades of so many battles is relieved by the conviction that the courage and devotion of this army will never cease nor fail; that it will yield to my successor, as it has to me, a willing and hearty support.
With the earnest prayer that the triumphs of its arms may bring successes worthy of it and the nation, I bid farewell.
JOSEPH HOOKER
Major-General