The Palmetto Herald

PORT ROYAL, THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 1864.

NEW COMMANDING OFFICERS.
IMPORTANT CHANGES.

Col. Joshua B. Howell, 85th P. V., who has for the past three months efficiently commanded the District of Hilton Head, was on Tuesday relieved by Col. W. W. H. Davis, of the 104th P. V. The latter has announced the following officers upon his staff: Major E. S. Rogers, 104th P. V., Acting Assistant Adjutant General; 1st Lieut. John McCoy, 104th P. V., Acting Aide-de-Camp.

Col. Redfield Duryee, 6th C. V., has been succeeded in command of the post at Hilton Head by Col. Henry M. Hoyt, of the 52d P. V., who announces the following as his staff: 1st Lieut. James G. Stevens, 52d P. V., Post Adjutant; 1st Lieut. Edwin Fretz, 104th P. V., Acting Aide-de-Camp.

Col. Howell leaves a position which he has long filled most acceptably, with the best wishes of hosts of friends, won by his uniform courtesy, efficiency as an officer, and all the sterling qualities of a true gentleman and a soldier. We believe every person acquainted with Col. Howell's administration of affairs during the time he has commanded the District will testify to his faithfulness and efficiency.

Col. Duryee, as Post Commander, has also won much well-deserved praise by the manner in which he has filled that responsible and perplexing office, and many friends will regret his retirement from it.

Col. Davis, the new Commander of the District, and Col. Hoyt, Post Commander, both come well qualified for their positions, having seen much service, and being familiar with their duties. While we regret the retirement of Cols. Howell and Duryee, we congratulate the troops on the tried ability of their successors.