GDG- A different take

[Philip Laino]

GDGers;

	A thought that has rumbled around in my cranium as I ponder the Wright 
discussion is Lt. Alonzo Cushing and the events of July 2nd.

	 It seems to me as I read the Civil War histories, that an Artillery 
commander's worst nightmare, and a badge of dishonor, is to lose any of 
his guns. Cushing's performance, his courage, his steadfastness, all 
which cost him his life on July 3rd, speaks to this persistence to his 
guns and the men of his battery. Cushing stayed with his six three-inch 
rifles, giving his last full measure, as did Rorty, Woodruff, Hazlett, 
and Wilkeson—all killed while defending their Federal batteries.

	It does not seem to me reasonable that Cushing (and/or Arnold) would 
have their batteries overrun without a major confrontation that would 
be noted in the histories. Reference what was written when Avery and 
Hays stormed East Cemetery Hill and approached Wiedrich, Ricketts, and 
Breck. The gunners of those batteries fought hand-to-hand to keep their 
pieces with the same ferocity that Cushing manifested on the third.

	I admire the chaplain's questioning curiosity, and applaud his 
investigation, but when the smoke settles, I believe Wright did not get 
into Cushing's and/or Arnold's batteries.

	Regards,

	Phil Laino