Edward, There is no need to perpetuate the myth of Longstreet's incompetence at Gettysburg. On the July 2nd action, Lee's, and in turn, Longstreet's "en echelon" attack on the second day was quite effective. Both Lee and Meade knew that Little Round Top was only an anchor for The Federal line and not a strategic point on the battlefield. As each regiment stepped off and engaged there was great success. Barksdale's Mississippi boys kicked butt and rolled up a substantial part of the Federal line while capturing quite a few pieces of artillery. It was when Wright's boys (Longstreet's Corps) encountered Federal riflemen in and around the Codori Farm out buildings that Posey and Mahone (A.P. Hill's Third Corps.....not Longstreet's men) decided not to step off in support. Thus the en echelon attack began to break down. Dorsey Pender (four brigades) rode personally to find out the problem and was mortally wounded in his attempt. Thus Lee's/Longstreet's great attack fizzled out in the afternoon sun so very near the Federal center at the copse of trees. The very place that Pender's men would have attacked. And never forget that Hood was wounded at the first sign of engagement on July 2nd. With artillery in reserve that his replacement knew nothing about. And the five veteran brigades of the ANV that Jefferson Davis sent west to assist Bragg at Vicksburg just before Lee's march to Pennsylvania. Pickett's/Pettigrew's Charge was a major success as well. Armistead and Kemper breaking through the Federal line. But no support was in sight. And the third day became a limp back across an open field. Lee's ANV still left that field and made their way home for 2 more years of fighting. Don't hate Longstreet because he wasn't from Virginia. Look at his track record. Lee's "Old War Horse" led a many victory. Late at The Wilderness? What is late? They were no trains, planes, or buses. You march as fast as you can and get there ready to engage. Mission accomplished. Even with Longstreet's wounding the battle was a Confederate victory. As far as Gettysburg is concerned, let me recommend a great read. Scott Bowden and Bill Ward's "Last Chance for Victory. Robert E Lee and the Gettysburg Campaign". These guys pick apart every moment of the battle and all of it's varied details. I'm a big Longstreet "fan". Regardless of his political actions after the war, he was a great leader. And my GG Grandfather (Co.B, 11th North Carolina Infantry) with Heth's Division was wounded at Gettysburg on the first day. But returned to action while being in and out of hospitals until 3 April 1865. So I do have a dog in this fight too.

Keith