Major General Henry Wager Halleck, the abrasive commander of the Federal Department of Missouri, was in the habit of scratching his elbows while thinking. It was as if - said Secretary of the Navy Gideon Welles, who detested him - Halleck's elbows were the seat of his mental process.

Brigadier General Lloyd Tilghman, in command at Fort Henry, fought valiantly before giving up. When he came aboard the Cincinnati to surrender, Flag Officer Foote said, "Come, general, you have lost your dinner, and the steward has just told me mine is ready." They walked together into the cabin.

No terms except unconditional and immediate surrender can be accepted. I propose to move immediately upon your works.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obediant servant,
U.S. Grant

"Fill your canteens, boys! Some of you will be in hell before night and you'll need water!"
- Colonel Isaac C. Pugh, 41st Illinois