C. T. Suddeth

June 25, 1876:  Colonel Custer and the 7^th Cavalry attacked a huge Indian encampment of Lakota and Cheyenne on the Little Bighorn River, Montana at about 3 pm. Custer’s mistakes are well known, but the entire cavalry blundered badly.

Major Reno took one flank, though his force was smaller than Custer’s. Blunder 1—Reno struck first, not realizing how big the village was—his troops fired into the village killing women and children. At this time Custer’s men had not yet engaged the Indians. Blunder 2—Reno formed a skirmish line where 3 men fired and the 4^th held the horses, so 25% of his men were not shooting. Blunder 3—the Indians outflanked him, routed his troops—they fled, leaving wounded behind. Blunder 4-since Custer had the largest detachment, Reno asked that the reserves come to his rescue.

Captain Benteen led the reserves and supply wagons. Benteen’s blunders, A—he was given a note written by Lt. Cooke containing Custer’s commands (delivered by an Italian bugler who spoke no English) yet did not rescue Custer. Blunder B—one of Reno’s lieutenants grew tired of Reno’s inaction, led a group toward Custer but were driven back. Benteen still did nothing.

I’m no historian—just my humble observations. (Lt. Cooke’s note, Benteen’s handwriting top) (Reno’s initial assault)