March 5, 1836-Day Twelve-The Alamo

Santa Ana issues orders the final assault to begin the next day.  There will be four assault columns and one held in reserve.  He also orders reconnaissance to determine the positioning and approaches.

Most of the Mexican officers were of the opinion no assault would be necessary due to no reinforcements arriving, the walls were crumbling and time would take care of the rest.  Col. Enrique de la Pena wrote in his diary the majority:

                “were of the opinion that victory over a handful of men concentrated in the 

                  Alamo did not call for great sacrifice.”

Santa Ana stubbornly refused citing morale as a factor.

               

A messenger arrives at the Alamo with the news that reinforcements aren’t coming.

Travis gathers the garrison and informs them of the news and what their options are.  It is at this time the legend of the Line in the Sand took place. 

Around midnight, Mexican forces begin moving to prepare for the final assault.

Remember the Alamo