Osterhaus appears as an aggressive and dependable commander whose field experience mattered more than the uneven distribution of formal rank. During the Vicksburg campaign he commanded a division at Champion Hill and the Big Black River Bridge. His formation also helped prevent Joseph E. Johnston from disrupting the siege operations and later served in Sherman's protective advance. That record connected manoeuvre, flank security, and siege support before the March to the Sea. It explains why Osterhaus could receive a complicated assignment even though other corps contained more major generals.
Notable Point · 50:36-52:10
Osterhaus brings Vicksburg experience to the exposed flank
Peter J. Osterhaus's Vicksburg record explains why he was trusted with the four-division Fifteenth Corps on the march's more exposed southern side.