Book Description

What went wrong? The movement and details of the Union offensive plan at Fredericksburg seemed to be understood by all senior commanders; the Union force had a preponderance of manpower and artillery; a bridgehead was established on the enemy side of the river and initial objectives secured. Then why did the Union commander decide to withdraw his army back across the river to its original position? That question cannot be fully answered without viewing the pontoon crossing sites, the Union approach routes, the infamous "stonewall," and the other Confederate defensive positions. Accordingly, the purpose of a Fredericksburg staff ride is to visit these and other locations on the battlefield and analyze the battle through the eyes of the men who were there, both leaders and rank and file soldiers. Hopefully, by understanding the actions, inactions, and reactions of commanders and their troops in real situations we may gain insights into the human condition under stress and decision making during combat. The staff ride is a training method which commanders can use for the professional development of their subordinates and to enliven the unit's esprit de corps - constant objectives of all commanders in peacetime. Includes maps, orders of battle, illustrations and appendices. (Facsimile reprint originally published by the Army's Center for Military History; typography less dark than the original)