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Joe Callahan recovered this early model Sharps carbine and waist belt plate of the prewar clipped corner militia style popular with America militia companies across the land. Burke enlisted in the New England cavalry in1861 before its designation as the 1st Rhode Island Cavalry. He was clearly proud of his early affiliation since he wore this plate until his mortal wounding in October 1863 as a member of Co B. While the regiment was moving from Falmouth to Culpeper, Burke and several troopers were ambushed by guerillas near Sulphur Springs. Burke received a mortal wound-shot through his lungs. His fellow troopers fled for their lives leaving the dying Burke behind. Callahan found the carbine and belt plate along with several spurs, but since Yankee troops later camped in the area Joe didn't realize he had located the spot where a brave Rhode Islander died. Instead, he believed he had found camp relics discarded during the winter. When Nancy Rossbacher researched Burke's records she made the discovery that Joe's find was all that remained of the forgotten soldier. But now, James A Burke is memorialized in "Groundbreakers" and his name will not be forgotten.

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