As McCranie's story is well written, it does not support facts. There are two sides to every story. My great great great grandfather John fought bravely in the Vicksburg Campain and was a decorated war hero.
Also, the story of William's AWOL is of sad nature. Shorty before the War of Northern Agression, Their father, Levi Gibson Calcote (also a decorated war hero for C.S.A.) lost his wife, their mother, to sickness. Around that time His father James Calcote, a prominet plantation owner, had passed as well. Leaving the estate in turmoil. James had 11 children and all fought to claim their share of the rich estate. Levi had just about enough set off for Texas with his two oldest boys, William Harrison and John James. He gave up his inheritance and left the rest of his children with his sister-in-law in Franklin, MS wher the Calcote Plantation resided. The two brothers where only in their mid to late teenage years. Shortly after arriving to Burleson County Texas, the war broke out and all 3, father and sons, joined the cause. While fighting in MS after the Vicksburg Campain, William set off to see his younger brothers, sisters, and the rest of his large family whom he had to leave just 4 to 5 years prior. That's why he was able to re-join the army.
So, these boys were just like you and me. Not blood thirsty, just young passionate men with love in their hearts. They grew up to be honest and hard working men and both cultivated and large and loving families of their own.