In examining in detail the CSR's for the 6th Missouri (CSA) or better known as the 'Southwest Missouri' regiment, there are no cards on Colonel John Coffee. There is no argument about him being the first commander of the regiment, however, the CSR's are concerned with commissions and service in the Confederate Army. It is my understanding that Coffee did not have a regular commission at the time of the regiments organization, that he maintained a Missouri State Guard commission in line similar with Jeff Thompson. At least I think so. Later he organizes a unit that operates in SW Missouri. The Question follows, 'Did Coffee ever have a regular commission?'