John Buford, an American soldier and Union cavalry officer during the Civil War, played a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the Battle of Gettysburg with his strategic brilliance and steadfast leadership. His decisive actions on the first day of the battle helped secure high ground for the Union army, setting the stage for one of the most decisive victories of the war.
"There was splendid fighting on the part of the division on the 7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th. There was no faltering or hesitation. Each man went to work determined to carry anything in reason."
"Shortly after this, I placed my command on our extreme left, to watch and fight the enemy should he make another attack, and went to Cemetary Hill for observation."
"Found everybody in a terrible state of excitement on account of the enemy's advance upon this place."
"During the whole campaign, from June 27 to July 31, there has been no shirking or hesitation, to tiring on the part of a single man so far as I have seen; the brigade commanders reported none."
"If the regulars are to be put together, I believe they would prefer me to the other Cavalry Commanders."