Download or read book Fredericksburg Staff Ride: Briefing Book [Illustrated Edition] written by Ted Ballard and published by Pickle Partners Publishing. This book was released on 2014-08-15 with total page 121 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Contains more than 20 maps, diagrams and illustrations The movement and details of the Union offensive plan at Fredericksburg seemed to be understood by all senior commanders; the North had a preponderance of manpower and artillery; a bridgehead was established on the enemy side of the river and initial objectives secured. Why did Burnside decide to withdraw his army back across the river to its original position? That question cannot be answered without viewing the pontoon crossing sites, the Union approach routes, the infamous "stonewall," and the other Confederate defensive positions. Accordingly, the purpose of a Fredericksburg staff ride is to visit these and other locations on the battlefield and analyze the battle through the eyes of the men who were there, both leaders and rank and file soldiers.