Most of the pioneers remained in camp on Sunday, July 4, 1847.

North Jacob:

"THIS IS UNCLE SAM'S DAY OF INDEPENDENCE. WELL, WE ARE INDEPENDENT OF ALL THE POWERS OF THE GENTILES; THAT'S ENOUGH FOR US."

Brigham Young returned to the Green River ferry to send off the five men who would return to guide other emigrant companies west. There, on the opposite bank they saw 13 men on horseback, preparing to cross the river.

Wilford Woodruff:

"...TO OUR GREAT JOY WHO SHOULD THEY BE BUT OUR BRETHREN BELONGING TO THE MORMON BATTALION...."

They'd been discharged and were heading west to join the pioneers, but also to find fur traders, believed to be at Fort Bridger, who'd stolen some of their horses.