Final answer:
General John Fulton Reynolds provided crucial support for John Buford's forces at Gettysburg but was killed shortly after his arrival by a Confederate sharpshooter. His actions helped the Union establish a stronger defensive position early in the battle.
Step-by-step explanation:
When General John Fulton Reynolds arrived to provide relief for Brigadier General John Buford at the Battle of Gettysburg, he played a pivotal role in the early stages of the battle.
Reynolds, commanding the left wing of the Army of the Potomac, arrived with infantry support for Buford's cavalry on the morning of July 1, 1863. His arrival and quick action helped to bolster the Union defensive positions until additional Union forces could arrive.
Unfortunately, Reynolds was killed soon after his arrival. He was shot by a Confederate sharpshooter while directing troops on the battlefield. Reynolds' death was a significant loss for the Union army, but his actions before his death contributed to a stronger defensive line that was crucial for the Union's eventual victory at Gettysburg.
The actions of Reynolds at Gettysburg exemplify the chaos and importance of leadership during critical moments in military history.