This document relates to his service in the Civil War. In August of 1862 Company D of the Sixth Maryland Regiment was formed. John Rouzer was Commissioned First Lieutenant and served honorably being promoted twice after serving with valor in several campaigns. This is First Lieutenant John R. Rouzer's Commission from the State of Maryland dated August 23, 1862. This document is now 158 years old! This document is from Bill Zentz's collection. I want to thank Candy Zentz for sharing Billy's amazing document with us.

The Commission reads: The State of Maryland To John R. Rouzer of Frederick County Esquire: Greeting: Be it known, that reposing especial trust and confidence in your Fidelity, Courage, Good Conduct, and attachment to the State of Maryland and the United States, you are by these Presents constituted and appointed First Lieutenant Company D Sixth Regiment Maryland Volunteer Infantry to take rank from August 23rd 1862. You are, therefore, carefully to discipline the Officers and Soldiers under your command, who are hereby strictly enjoined to obey you as their First Lieutenant and in this, and in all other respects, you are diligently to discharge the trust committed to you i these Presents, according to the Constitution and Laws of this State and of the United States, and as such Rules and Regulations as are or may be established under authority thereof. This Commission to be in full force until lawfully revoked. Given under my hand and the Great Seal of the State of Maryland, At Annapolis, this Twenty Seventh day of August in the year of our Lord One Thousand Eight Hundred and Sixty Two.