Hi Ernie:

This is a military parole document given by the capturing Federal cavalry raiders. Handing out of these "paroles in the field" was one of the prime reasons for the collapse of the Dix-Hill Cartel (general exchange agreement) in the first place, so I am surprised seeing a Federal commander in the field making use of it at this late stage of the war. But the document is not an Oath of Allegiance or Amnesty Oath. It is an "oath" in the sense that WMS is giving his sworn personal promise to not take up arms again until properly exchanged, in return for his release from incarceration. But the term "oath" is not generally used to describe these military paroles.

The Alabama experts need to step in and help you with the history of the 22nd Alabama Cavalry. There is none posted on the NPS website and only 11 names of men enrolled in the regiment.

Thanks for the clarification!

Hugh