Classic Cavalry Tactics at Gettysburg

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of infantry and artillery and that Buford was adhering to Meade’s plan by not bringing on any general engagements. This accurate reporting gave his higher headquarters the pertinent information needed to help develop a COA. It set the conditions for Buford to transition his operation to the next level.

On 30 June, Buford transitioned to guard operations. Buford understood that contact was expected as the enemy is in sight of his forces. He also knew that he could not transition into a cover force. Although he was asked to operate as a separate entity from the main body, he did not have the combat power to commit to decisive attacks on Lee’s army. He also did not have the resources to sustain his forces without the help of Pleasanton’s main body.

Buford immediately sent out local security picket lines to guard against surprise and continued his reconnaissance on the enemy. Buford set up his two brigades on seminary ridge. He chose a defense to defend in depth. Seminary ridge was far enough away from the main engagement area to fall back to. This tactic involves delaying and deterring the enemy while making a fighting withdrawal. Buford only had 2750 men and 6 guns to work with, so posting his forces here would rob take away his freedom of maneuver. He chose to defend in depth by delaying the confederates long enough for reinforcements to arrive and make the confederates pay for every yard they gain. It was here that Buford and Reynolds had one of the most notable conversations of the battle...

“What goes on John,” Reynolds asks nonchalantly?

“The devils to pay,” Buford exclaimed!

“Can you hold?”

“I recon I can,” Buford announced with confidence.

Buford’s “fall back and fight” tactic delayed the confederates for 2 hours. This was 2 crucial hours of time needed by General Meade to secure the high ground and set the conditions for success. Buford’s combined tactic’s, in classic cavalry style, made General Lee focus on Buford’s forces. This took Lee’s focus away from the high ground, much to the contention of General Longstreet.

General John Buford maintained the focus and tempo outlined by his higher and was the “eyes and ears” of the battlefield. His men were technically and tactically proficient and had the audacity to engage and disrupt the enemy’s superior forces. In doing so, he delayed the enemy long enough for the Army of the Potomac to fortify and secure the high ground necessary for victory. There were many valiant and astonishing acts of courage and cunning at Gettysburg. Many exceptional and brilliant soldiers will go down in history as essential elements for the success of the day, and General John Buford is certainly one of them.