George, Yes I've spent hours reading those letters. Thanks for transcribing . Your Grandfather mentions my Uncle John in his letter dated 12/28/61.
Were you aware that the Osprey Publishing - "Men at Arms" series #423 ( The Confederate Army : South Carolina & Mississippi) is not only an excellent source on Mississippi uniforms ,
but also specifically names Co F "Marion's Men", 7th Miss. on page 40 ? The booklet quotes Captain Rankin's desire to have the men utilize their personal rifles "back home" for arms.

GM