General John Reynolds KIA Gettysburg A bust view CDV of one the most respected Union generals of the Civil War. A West Point graduate and veteran of the Mexican-American War, he was known as a superb tactician and a "soldier’s soldier." During the Civil War, Reynolds rose to command the I Corps of the Army of the Potomac. He played key roles at the Battles of Mechanicsville, Second Bull Run, and Fredericksburg. His reputation was so high that President Abraham Lincoln reportedly offered him command of the entire Army of the Potomac in June 1863, which Reynolds declined because he was refused the operational freedom he felt was necessary to succeed. Reynolds is most famous for his role on the first day of the Battle of Gettysburg. Realizing the strategic importance of the high ground, he rushed his infantry to support Union cavalry holding the town. While personally directing the placement of the 2nd Wisconsin Infantry in McPherson's Woods, he was struck by a bullet and killed instantly. His death was a massive blow to the Union high command, though his quick decision to fight at Gettysburg is credited with securing the eventual victory. Back marked J.E. McClees, Philadelphia.