In the early battles of the campaign, Sheridan's cavalry was relegated by army commander Maj. Gen. George Meade to its traditional role—screening, reconnaissance, and guarding trains and rear areas—much to Sheridan's frustration.
I begyndelsen af kampagnen blev Sheridans kavaleri anvendt af hærens øverstbefalende generalmajor George G. Meade i den traditionelle rolle – afskærmning, rekognoscering og bevogtning af tog og bagområder – til Sheridans store frustration.