Description
E. & H. T. backmark. Image is faded. Upon the outbreak of the American Civil War in 1861, Sickles became one of the war's most prominent political generals, recruiting the New York regiments that became known as the Excelsior Brigade in the Army of the Potomac. Despite his lack of military experience, he served as a brigade, division, and corps commander in some of the early Eastern campaigns. His military career ended at the Battle of Gettysburg in July 1863, after he moved his III Corps (without orders) to an untenable position where his Corps was decimated, yet slowed General Longstreet's flanking maneuver. He was wounded by cannon fire and had to have his leg amputated. He was eventually awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions.
