MARSHAL LOUIS N. DAVOUT AND THE ART OF COMMAND A ...

Marshal Louis Alexandre Berthier and to Marshal Bernadotte. Unfortunately, it fell on deaf ears. Napoleon was convinced that he himself was facing the main army and Bernadotte in his own unique style refused to follow the orders of another marshal. Davout then had to decide whether to remain inactive or attack a-force that outnumbered him three to one. Exhibiting a great deal of personal and moral courage he decided to move forward and attack. He made his first contact about 7:00 A.M. just outside the village of Poeppel with General Charles Gudinrs division. As usual Davout accompanied Gudin and the lead division. They quickly pushed the Prussians back and secured a defensive line facing west along the Lissbach Stream. During the next eight hours Davout and I11 Corpsliterally fought for their lives. As with every battle inwhich Davout fought he was close to the front directingthe action. His resolve and refusal to admit defeat werekey factors in his success at Auerstaedt. During thisfirst contact General Gebhard von Bluecher attackedGudin's thin division with twelve squadrons of cavalry.Gudin had to hold because the other two divisions ofDavoutrs corps were not yet within supporting distance.They were at least one to two hours behind. A lessresolute commander would have avoided battle under suchcircumstances. Davout decided to stay and fight .