Field of Lost Shoes

In his youth, John Wise witnesses a live slave auction that deeply affects him. He sees a slave family cruelly sold off to different bidders, which leads to a profound understanding of the cruelty of slavery and the impact on human lives.

Five years after his traumatic experience, John is sent to the Confederate Virginia Military Institute by his father. This military school is where John begins his education amidst the backdrop of the encroaching Civil War.

During John's second year at VMI, the Civil War is rapidly approaching the vicinity of the military school. The cadets become increasingly aware of the impending battles that will shape their future.

In 1864, General Ulysses S. Grant meets with President Abraham Lincoln at the White House. In their discussion, Grant expresses his ruthless strategy of warfare aimed at demoralizing the Confederates by cutting their resources.

Confederate leaders Major Charles Semple and General John C. Breckinridge analyze the terrain around New Market Gap as they anticipate the next battle against Union forces. Breckinridge insists on the necessity of reinforcements to secure their position.

Union General Franz Sigel commands forces in Virginia but is reluctant to listen to advice. He dismisses Captain Henry DuPont, suspecting him of espionage and complicating the coordination against the Confederate threat.

General Breckinridge decides to mobilize the cadets from the Virginia Military Institute as a reserve force to support the Confederates at New Market Gap. The cadets are given the daunting task of marching 50 miles in just two days.

During the challenging march, John Wise finds himself grappling with a crisis of conscience regarding the Confederate cause, which he questions while feeling compelled to defend his family and school. This introspection weighs heavily on him as battle looms.

Lincoln is informed about General Grant's movements towards New Market Gap, where the Union army is better prepared. The ominous intelligence suggests a potential massacre awaits the poorly equipped Confederate cadets.

On May 15, 1864, the VMI cadets find themselves forced into battle with General Grant's troops as their reinforcements never arrive. Despite their youth and inexperience, they prepare to face the well-trained Union soldiers.

The cadets hold their formation despite the heavy artillery fire from the Union army. Their bravery shines through as they push forward, determined to hold the Confederate line at all costs.

In a moment of inspiration, John Wise decides to charge towards the Union artillery garrison, rallying his fellow cadets. Their courageous assault results in the capture of the Union's artillery, causing confusion and retreat within the enemy ranks.

Many cadets lose their shoes in the muddy battlefield, leading to the area being historically referred to as the 'Field of Lost Shoes.' This term honors the challenges faced by the young soldiers in combat.

The battle results in the deaths of ten VMI cadets, including John’s close friends Sam Atwill, Jack Stanard, and Garland Jefferson. This tragic loss profoundly impacts John and serves as a somber reminder of the war's toll on the youth.

In remembrance of their fallen comrades, the story of the courageous cadets who fought bravely at New Market Gap is honored each year with a parade at the Virginia Military Institute. Their sacrifice remains a significant part of VMI's history.