 On November 26, 1861, Gordon led the first charge of his regiment and won praise for his bravery from General Stuart.In early 1862, he was promoted to lieutenant colonel, and a year later was made a full colonel of cavalry.During the Army of Northern Virginia's retreat after the Battle of Gettysburg in July 1863, Colonel Gordon defeated Union forces at Hagerstown, Maryland, thereby helping the Confederates escape into Virginia.