Decision 2 of 4

Continue to Attack, or Probe and Regroup?

It is early evening on July 1, 1863.

Confederate forces have won a signifcant victory, out-flanking and driving Union forces from the field and onto the high ground south of Gettysburg. A key landmark, Culp's Hill, has been taken which now anchors the Confederate left flank and renders the Union position on Cemetery Hill more exposed.

Your division and Corps commanders are asking for re-supply and time to rest and reform their regiments and brigades. Union forces appear to be doing just that and are also fortifying the ridges and hilltops they occupy. Ewell's II Corps is just north of the Cemetery Hill and to the east on Culp's Hill.

Choice #1:
Clearly instruct Ewell to rally his scattered and tired regiments to attack the now-fortified Union positions on Cemetery Hill. Focus all energies on the attack instead of regrouping for tomorrow or probing for intelligence.

Choice #2:
Exercise caution and allow your troops to rest and reform their regiments for assaults the next day. Send out patrols in the area to better assess Union positions and strengths, particularly their defenses on the hills.