A Union major general, Hancock is also Armistead’s close friend, having served with him, Longstreet, and others in the Mexican War. He is a commanding presence and “picture-book soldier.” Stalwart in battle, he opposes Meade’s desire to withdraw and heroically leads the Union in hanging onto Cemetery Hill during the final Confederate offensive. Though badly injured in battle, he survives, unlike Armistead, with whom he is never reunited.