John Buford
John Buford
John Buford, Jr.was a Union cavalry officer during the American Civil War. A West Point regular, born in the divided border state of Kentucky, he had many Southern connections, but opted to stay in the Union Army. His first command was a cavalry brigade under Major General John Pope, and he distinguished himself at Second Bull Run, where he was wounded, and also saw action at Antietam and Chancellorsville...
NationalityAmerican
ProfessionSoldier
Date of Birth4 March 1826
CountryUnited States of America
Had any of them given me timely information and acted as a guide that night, I could have surprised and captured this (Rebel) force.
I am disgusted and worn out with the system that seems to prevail.
Found everybody in a terrible state of excitement on account of the enemy's advance upon this place.
The people give and sell the men something to eat, but I can't stand that way of subsisting; it causes dreadful straggling.
There is so much apathy... that I wish to be relieved from the Army of the Potomac.
Within forty eight hours the concentration of both armies will take place on a field within view and a great battle will be fought.
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.
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.
I sent him word I was a captain in the United States Army and I intend to remain one.
I have not been able to get any grain yet. It is all in the country, and the people talk instead of working.
The enemy was too strong for me, but he was severely punished for his obstinacy. His casualties were more than quadruple mine.
A heavy task was before us; we were equal to it, and shall all remember with pride that at Gettysburg we did our country much service.
I can do nothing with the enemy save observe him.
General: I attempted to take Williamsport yesterday, but found too large a force of infantry and artillery. After a long fight, I withdrew to this place.