Hold to the Last

On July 2, 4:30 pm, responding to the crisis at Little Round Top and without waiting for approval from his commanding officer, Union Colonel Strong Vincent took responsibility for moving his brigade there. Riding ahead of his troops, he ascended this hill and selected the ground where his brigade would make its defense, personally placing each of his four regiments. At this position, he entrusted his left flank to Colonel Joshua L. Chamberlain's 20th Maine. Vincent's brigade was assaulted by Confederate regiments from Texas and Alabama, and a desperate battle ensued across the entire brigade front. The line held, but the cost was high, including Vincent, who was mortally wounded.

Pennsylvania · United States