By March 1862, the unit was only about a third of its normal strength due to sickness and resignations, but fought in the First Kernstown until its ammunition ran out, with 5 killed and 23 wounded. That battle led to Garnett's removal and replacement by Brig. Gen. Charles S. Winder. Since many volunteers' terms were expiring (and many deserted), the men were allowed to choose their officers, and chose Charles A. Ronald as their Colonel, Robert D. Gardner as Lt. Col., and William Terry as Major.