“This book contains a wealth of information like no other that chronicles the purpose, records, culture, behavior, and movements of a US Colored Troop during the American Civil War.”
Co-Author of "It's All About GUTS"
“IT’S ALL ABOUT GUTS: WE SALUTE THE MEN OF THE 135TH UNITED STATES COLORED TROOP” is a compelling narrative that brings to light the remarkable lives of the brave African American soldiers who fought with the 135th United States Colored Troop during the Civil War. Through exhaustive research, the book weaves together the pension records, personal accounts, and letters of these forgotten men, illustrating not only the valor in battle but their enduring legacy after the war. Readers are invited into the soldiers’ lives as they share stories of family, love, hardship, and triumph. Some lived well into the early 20th century, witnessing a world that drastically changed around them. This book honors these men “In Their Own Words,” providing a raw and vivid account of a chapter of history that has long been overlooked.
Perfect for history buffs, genealogists, and those passionate about African American history, “It’s All About Guts” serves as a tribute to those who helped to bring freedom to future generations while fighting for their own.
“This is a fantastic historical book on the lives of the former enslaved men who became the 135th USCT. The genesis of these African American men went from knowing very little to an astounding knowledge of their lives and how they worked in the Army and contributed as freedom fighters not only for their family, but for their country.”
Descendant of a 135th USCT Soldier, Member of the Research Team
“This is an Outstanding accounting of the true story of the Americans of African descent the 135th USCT who helped General Sherman in the War of the Rebellion better know as the Civil War to hasten an end to it and bring freedom to their families, other enslaved people and peace to the United States of America. Working along side of the other Union soldiers they labored tirelessly and faced the dangers to themselves. They were fully present but not known of till now. Jay and Amy do a wonderful job of taking us through their lives and making us come to fully appreciate their endeavors!”
Descendant of a 135th Soldier
“‘It’s All About Guts’ is an excellent addition to our history of the Civil War. Jay and Amy Bauer led a large team of volunteers and advisors who helped reveal the courageous efforts of the 135th United States Colored Troop. It details the lives of over 58 men, many of their widows, and a personal journal of one of the officers who served with them. Also included is a complete listing of all the men who served in the 135th U.S. Colored Troop, some of their photos and pictures of many of their tombstones. I’m impressed with the extensive research and time it took to compile this substantive report on a part of history that was previously forgotten. Thank you to all who worked on this project. It was well worth the time and effort to open our eyes to the truth of the valiant men who left slavery and fought alongside others for their freedom!”
Amazon Customer
“I am thrilled to see my great-great grandfather’s journal writings featured in Chapter 15 of the Bauer’s book, along with photos of his sword, his field journal, and several of his photographs of the men with whom he served. Enlisting as a member of the Pioneer Corps, my great-great-grandfather rose to First Lieutenant leading Company K of the 135th. From a corpsman serving in the field hospital, to leading troops in the Grand Review of the Armies in Washington DC, the Bauers graciously included John Auman’s actual remembrances of his time in the war.”
Descendant of a 135th USCT Soldier
“They had this opportunity, and they decided to be a part of the success of people coming out of slavery.”
Descendant of a 135th USCT Soldier, Member of the Research Team
“This story means that the narrative promoted by scholars, who have claimed there were no African American officers, no African American field grade officers, no African Americans in regiments other than USCT regiments, no USCT regiments marched in the Grand Review, and at least a dozen other false statements must be jettisoned for a new narrative inclusive of the many facts discovered by lay historians and genealogists.”
Professional Civil War Historian and Author
“The brave young men depicted in the book describe their arduous journey building corduroy roads and bridges in a harsh winter through the swamps of South Carolina and quick sand of North Carolina to arrive in Goldsboro, where they are outfitted in the blue uniforms of the United States Army, raise their right arm, take the oath of service, and become regular soldiers.”
“I was so impressed by this book in so many ways. First off, you can tell the authors cared about this book just based on its construction. It comes with a wonderfully thick sleeve for protection, but when you take it off – it’s the same beautiful cover underneath! You don’t see that every day. This makes it such a nice addition to my bookshelf. The pages are crisp and easy to turn. And that is all before you get to the wealth of knowledge, passion, and clear dedicated research you get from the pages. And not only do they tell you what their research has show, THEY SHOW YOU the proof behind it all allowing you to see where it all came from. I love it so much I actually bought 4! I plan to get one signed in the future at a book signing and I have to have some to loan out to a few friends! Great addition to a library and great information on not just the forgotten troops of the 135th, but also so many other people involved giving wonderful perspectives and new truths. This is a must get!”
Amazon Customer
“Not only the African American community, but the Wayne County [North Carolina] community and nation can take great pride in knowing their history is preserved and commemorated right here in Goldsboro, NC.”
Descendant of a 135th USCT Soldier, Member of the Research Team