"Ecelbarger studies Lander's flaws, attributes, and achievements to provide a judicious, comprehensive analysis of his actions and character. In Frederick W. Lander, he produces the story of a once-forgotten hero who now appears life size."--Jacket.;Old Grizzly -- Super-Americo-contracting viper -- You've got pluck -- Colonel Lander is a valuable man to us -- That must be a remarkable man -- We need fighting men -- Is not war a game of risks? -- I will cross Hell on the ice -- I am dying -- Follow me! -- Shall I disobey orders? -- Bravest of the brave.;With an energy that befits his subject, Gary L. Ecelbarger brings to life this intriguing, romantic personality of the nineteenth century, tempting the imagination to consider what Lander might have accomplished had he lived longer.";"Using more than five hundred unpublished letters and documents written by Lander and his colleagues, superiors, and subordinates, Ecelbarger delves into all of the major aspects of Lander's life but focuses upon its final chapter in the Civil War. Promoted directly from unpaid aide-de-camp to brigadier general, Lander was quickly dubbed "the great natural American soldier" by Lieutenant General Winfield Scott for his brilliant promise as a military leader. The author offers a detailed narrative of Lander's courageous participation in three campaigns during the first year of the conflict: Rich Mountain, May-July, 1861; Ball's Bluff, September-October, 1861; and the previously undocumented campaign against Stonewall Jackson, January-March, 1862."