Why were volunteer nurses so important for the care and comfort of Civil War soldiers? Why were they not recognized officially as medical nurses at the outset of the war? Objective Understand the complexities and difficulties of a female nurse volunteer at Fort Donelson (1862). Learn about her career as a Civil War nurse. Gain understanding on how one woman's story in the Civil War was a similar struggle for other women. Background The Campaign for Forts Henry, Heiman, and Donelson began in winter 1862, at a time that 19th century women were not permitted to serve as nurses or soldiers. Women Duration: 60 Minutes.