Tactical integrity

[twomoons]

Many theories have been put forth about the tactical stability of Custers battalion, in and around Custer Hill. A critical time for the beginning of that tactical breakdown must be assessed before any rational explanation of what happened there. What are your thoughts on this?

[Tricia]

Two Moons--

RE: tactical integrity

I'm a bit confused about your question--I'm one of those pesky folk who need to be an informed voter. When you mention Custer's 'division,' are you referring to his battalion as opposed to Reno's and/or Benteen's, or the entire regiment (the Seventh) from the Crow's Nest down-valley? This makes a big difference to me and perhaps, others.

Remember, Custer had not commanded an entire 'division' since the Civil War/Reconstruction (in TX). Sorry for the semantics' lesson, but it will make a BIG difference in how I reply to your poll.

Regards,
Leyton McLean

[twomoons]

I meant battalion, thanks

[prolar]

I would say MTF. Whatever the plan was, when the soldiers retreated from the ford and the Indians used it to advance, it was the beginning of the breakdown.

[crzhrs]

Once Custer's command stopped being on the offensive and became on the defensive, tactical stability broke down quickly. Companies were scattered and made it easy for warriors to take them out piecemeal. Once organization and command structure broke down the end came quickly.

Timeframe can be from when Custer started his offensive or when his command went on the defensive.

Altogether no more than two hours for the whole or less than an hour once on the defensive.

[weir]

It seems the battalion lost his tactical integrity when Cy F and E charged the Deep Ravine at about 17h20.

The Lame White Man's counterattack cut Cy E in pieces before it reached Custer Hill.