Col. Hodge,

I believe that a good argument could be made that Ft. Henry was doomed for several reasons, including the flood waters that could have made it indefensible before the crew had time to smoke more of the ships. Nevertheless, there was substantial damage to at least one ship due to just one 128 lb direct hit on the Essex. The artillery crew was well trained and though they only had 11 guns facing the attack, they could have done better with just a little less bad luck. After all, my scenario was a "What if" proposition. The naval battle at Ft. Donelson was a partial success for the Confederates. If two or three more Union ships had been taken out of service instead of one, that could have convinced Foote to retreat. And even if nothing changed at Ft. Henry, the Battle of Ft. Donelson could have been won, or at the very least, the garrison could have escaped, saving 10,000 soldiers to fight another day and contest control of Middle Tennessee.

As for Gettysburg, I do not claim to be a military tactician. I borrowed research and opinions from other men who know a lot more than yours truly.

David,

You did not address either of the two options; therefore, I award you no points.