Who was responsible for organizing the first sniper unit in the U.S. Army?

• A. Major General George Patton.
• B. Colonel Hiram Berdan.
• C. Lieutenant Colonel John McCullough.
• D. Sergeant Major William Smith.

Answer: (B)

The responsibility for organizing the first sniper unit in the U.S. Army rests with Colonel Hiram Berdan. He played a pivotal role during the American Civil War by forming the Berdan’s Sharpshooters, which were among the first specialized light infantry units equipped with rifles specifically for sharpshooting. Berdan's vision was to create units that would excel in marksmanship and engage the enemy from a distance, making use of their superior shooting skills to disrupt enemy formations and provide reconnaissance. His work laid the foundation for the specialized sniper roles that would develop in the Army in later years. This historical context showcases the importance of Berdan’s contributions to the evolution of sniper tactics and units within the military.