Question of the Week: 10/25-10/31/21
If you had to pick a Civil War officer to lead you (and a regiment) for a first experience under fire, who would it be?
If you had to pick a Civil War officer to lead you (and a regiment) for a first experience under fire, who would it be?
John Starkweather of the 1st Wisconsin.
Frances Barlow. I am allergic to the feel of a flat cavalry blade across my back and he would recognize that allergy and make sure it applied to me and my ability to move, shoot and charge. I’d welcome his discipline, knowing he was right behind me.
Yikes! But it proves maybe his method had some effective qualities? His leadership with the 61st New York on the Peninsula is a good microstudy, too.
Phil Sheridan.
“Well, Govan, if we must die, let us die like men.” Gen. Patrick R. Cleburne. Who could not follow such a man with the ultimate conviction to duty that he possessed?
So many to choose from, but I’ll go with Patrick O’Rorke
Emory Upton.
Emerson Opdycke, Patrick Cleburne
August Willich – absolutely superb regimental and brigade commander, plus a man who looked after the troops.
William Lytle, a gentle soul, a noble warrior.
Hiram Berry, taking out the 4th Maine Infantry at First Manassas.
William T. Shaw, commander of the Second Brigade (one of the “Iron Brigades”) of Smith’s Third Division. He fought tirelessly for the men under him.
Let’s not forget Artillery Reserve Brigades of the AOP. Freeman McGilvery is my choice. His personal courage and tactical brilliance helped to save the Union main line on Cemetery Ridge on July 2, 1863.
William B. Hazen. 41st Ohio/Hazen’s Brigade etc.
Joshua Chamberlain, 20th Maine. Leadership from the front, natural ability/thinking on his feet, compassion, courage. Saved the Union left at Little Round Top, Gettysburg.
Chatham Roberdeau Wheat.
Lieutenant John L. Worden, USN, commanding officer of the USS Monitor in her battle with the CSS Virginia.
Col. John McLane, 83rd Pennsylvania. Killed at Gaines’ Mill. The unit was well drilled and disciplined. His last order was to hold the ground to the end. Gen. Butterfield had to send an officer to order them to retreat as they intended to follow McLane’s order.
Thas Jonathan Jackson of the Stonewall brigade.
Thomas
Col. William Francis Bartlett. By the time he takes new regiments into battle, he had experience and knew what to do…although his leadership at the company was notable and resourceful at his first battle (Ball’s Bluff.)