Valin Posted July 3, 2010 Share Posted July 3, 2010 Military History Online July 1 1863 July 2 1863 Day 3: July 3, 1863 - Plans and Preparations Lee hoped to continue the attack early on the morning of the 3rd using Longstreet's Corps. But, Longstreet was not prepared that morning and Lee was forced to change his plan. Lee was encouraged by the near-penetrating attack by Anderson's Division in the Union center the day before. Lee's plan first called for an artillery barrage by Confederate artillery along Seminary Ridge and east of town. It was hoped that the barrage would reduce the Union Batteries and inflict heavy damage to the surrounding infantry. After the barrage, nearly 12,000 men, including 3 brigades under the command of MG George E. Pickett, would attack the Union center. Once the assault reached the Union line, reinforcements would arrive to exploit the breakthrough. In support, Lee ordered General Stuart's cavalry to head east and strike southward in hopes of reaching the Union's rear. The artillery barrage began at 13:00 and involved about 170 Confederate artillery pieces. The barrage covered the entire Union line but concentrated on its center. The Confederate guns were answered by about 80 Union guns and inflicted large numbers of casualties on the Confederate infantry. The Confederate guns also inflicted much damage on the Union batteries, but frequently tended to aim high and shoot over their targets due to poor visibility. BG Henry J. Hunt, the Federal artillery commander, wished to conserve ammunition to counter any Confederate advance and ordered a Union cease-fire. The Confederate barrage continued for nearly two hours and soon became short of ammunition. But, the time had come for the attack...(Snip) Pickett's Charge from the Federal lines "I believe this attack will fail. No 15,000 men ever made can take that ridge." James Longstreet The Movie "Gettysburg" "That old man destroyed my division" George Pickett on R E Lee Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Valin Posted July 3, 2010 Author Share Posted July 3, 2010 The Butchers Bill Battle of Gettysburg Date: July 1-3, 1863 Location: Pennsylvania Confederate Commander: Robert E. Lee Union Commander: George G. Meade Confederate Forces Engaged: 75,000 Union Forces Engaged: 82,289 Winner: Union Casualties: 51,112 (23,049 Union and 28,063 Confederate) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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