John C. Tidball

Biography

John Colden Tidball devoted his life to the artillery branch, distinguishing himself from his early service through the Civil War to his later oversight of gunnery detachments. His calm leadership and attention to drill brought steadiness to the guns and men under his charge, and he became known for the integrity with which he built his batteries.

After the war he continued to mentor younger officers, sharing the lessons of campaign experience and the value of disciplined training; his contributions remained part of the Army lore of West Point long after his final assignment. He rests at West Point Cemetery, where the grounds remember his decades of commitment to the republic and its defenders.