Saturday, October 15, 2016

The Coward of Little Big Horn

The Coward of Little Big Horn: Or not? Depends on which witnesses you believe in the inquiry against Marcus Reno.

4 comments:

Ben Boulden said...

Richard Wheeler wrote a terrific novel about Major Reno, AN OBITUARY FOR MAJOR RENO. It shows Major Reno as flawed man, but unfairly maligned officer for his actions at the Little Big Horn. Highly recommended.

Don Coffin said...

I think any criticism of other officers at Little Bighorn can only be looked at in the light of the incredible incompetence of one George Armstrong Custer.

Rick Robinson said...

I expected a comment by Cap'n Bob.

Cap'n Bob said...

Libby called Reno "The one true coward of the regiment." Some of the Indians testified later that had he pressed his attack he would have routed the village and assured victory. It's undeniable that Reno panicked after Bloody Knife's brains were splattered in his face, which led him to order a retreat, one which he was first in line for and which left many of his men behind.

I read the Wheeler book and thought it was an apology for a bad officer.

Reno wanted to leave the wounded behind and run from the ridge where they held off the Indians for two days, but Benteen wouldn't allow it.

Whatever Custer's flaws, the defeat had many fathers. It's too simplistic to blame him alone.

I didn't want to disappoint you, Rick. I've been off line because of the BIG STORM that never materialized.