From Slave to Soldier: Based on a True Civil War Story — Deborah Hopkinson

FOR USE IN SCHOOLS AND LIBRARIES ONLY. In an incident drawn from a former slave's narrative and carefully fleshed out, young Johnny runs away to join a company of Union soldiers. Taking up an invitation from a passing bluecoat, he joins troops on the march, and is given a job as a mule team driver. After taking a wagonload of provisions by himself over a dangerous bridge, he's even given a uniform of his own.