Meaning: This quote is attributed to John Buford, a Union Army cavalry officer during the American Civil War. Buford is best known for his crucial role in the Battle of Gettysburg, where his strategic positioning and leadership helped set the stage for the Union victory. The quote reflects Buford's confidence in his ability to lead the cavalry and suggests that he believed his fellow soldiers would prefer him over other commanders.

John Buford was born in 1826 in Kentucky and graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1848. He served in the U.S. Army during the Mexican-American War and later in various frontier postings. When the Civil War broke out, Buford remained loyal to the Union and was appointed as a cavalry officer. His leadership skills and tactical acumen quickly became evident, earning him the respect of his superiors and subordinates alike.

The quote in question likely stems from Buford's self-assurance and the recognition he received from his peers within the cavalry. During the early stages of the Civil War, the Union Army faced significant challenges in coordinating its cavalry forces effectively. Buford's confidence in his own leadership capabilities may have been a response to this need for strong leadership within the cavalry ranks.

In the context of the Civil War, cavalry played a vital role in reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, and disrupting enemy supply lines. Cavalry commanders were tasked with leading their troops in fast-paced and fluid engagements, often behind enemy lines. As such, the trust and confidence of the soldiers under their command were essential for effective leadership.

Buford's assertion that "the regulars" would prefer him over other cavalry commanders indicates that he believed he had earned the respect and loyalty of the soldiers in his unit. The term "regulars" likely refers to the career soldiers or the experienced cavalrymen who served under him. Buford's confidence in his popularity among these troops suggests that he was known for his leadership style, strategic competence, and the respect he showed to his soldiers.

It is worth noting that Buford's leadership at the Battle of Gettysburg exemplifies the qualities he believed endeared him to his fellow cavalrymen. In the days leading up to the battle, Buford's cavalry division encountered Confederate forces approaching the town of Gettysburg. Recognizing the strategic importance of the high ground to the south of the town, Buford positioned his troops to hold off the Confederate advance until Union infantry could arrive.

Buford's decision to hold his ground at Gettysburg bought crucial time for the Union Army and allowed General Meade to concentrate his forces at a strategic defensive position. Buford's leadership and tactical acumen in those critical days undoubtedly contributed to the Union's eventual victory at Gettysburg.

In conclusion, John Buford's quote reflects his confidence in his leadership abilities and his belief that the soldiers under his command held him in high regard. His actions at the Battle of Gettysburg and throughout his military career lend credence to his assertion that he was preferred by the "regulars" in the cavalry. Buford's legacy as a skilled and respected cavalry commander endures in the annals of military history, and his quote provides insight into the confidence and rapport he had with his fellow soldiers.