Text of Message from John Bell Hood Announcing His Relief from Command of the Army of Tennessee

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TENNESSEE,
Tupelo, Miss., January 23, 1865.

SOLDIERS:   At my request I have this day been relieved from the command of this army. In taking leave of you accept my thanks for the patience with which you have endured your many hardships during the recent campaign. I am alone responsible for its conception, and strived hard to do my duty in its execution. I urge upon you the importance of giving your entire support to the distinguished soldier who now assumes command, and I shall look with deep interest upon all your future operations and rejoice at your successes.

J. B. HOOD,
General.