Question of the Week: 3/19-3/25/18

March 17, 2018, was the 155th Anniversary of the Battle of Kelly’s Ford, which marks a turning point in the Union cavalry’s battlefield experiences.

Who is your favorite Union cavalry officer? (Doesn’t have to be a general.)



14 Responses to Question of the Week: 3/19-3/25/18

  1. David McMurtrie Gregg. A consummate professional. Would have mopped up Early in one battle in the Valley.

    1. I agree with Daniel Davis. George A. Custer is my favorite cavalry officier of the American Civil War. He helped the Union forces win the war. General Custer was an aggressive and successful officier. His forces defeated Confederate forces at Gettysburg, helping to cause Pickett’s advance to fail. General Custer is one of the most interesting soldiers of the American Civil War.

  2. At regimental and brigade level, COL Robet H. G. MInty, the Irish commander of the 4th Michigan and later the ‘Saber Brigade’ of the Army of the Cumberland. Give a look at his leadership and tactics at Shelbyville and Reed’s Bridge (Chickamauga), you’ll find fewer better.

    At division and corps level, MG Wesley Merritt, for his leadership of 1st Division Cavalry Corps at Third Winchester, and later as the Cavalry Corps commander during the move of the Army of the Shennandoah’s cavalry from the Upper Valley to Petersburg and throughout the Appomattox Campaign.

  3. Colonel John Wilder commanded a mounted infantry brigade nicknamed “Lightning Brigade.” Wilder mounted his infantry brigade and bought his men Spencer repeating rifles with his own funds (his men paid him back by deductions from their monthly pay) He combined mobility and firepower with ore effective rifles rather than carbines. His day of fame came with his action at Hoover’s Gap in 1863, but also was instrumental in keeping the Union retreat from Chickamauga from turning into a rout.

  4. As usual, all excellent and well thought out responses. I am very glad the Western Theater is getting its fair play!

  5. Brig. Gen. Elon Farnsworth. Gettysburg Pa.
    A true soldier to the end .. Who can argue with courage . In a sense less ordered charge ordered by his commander .He died leading hiS command shot 5 times yet still refused to surrender ..

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