 His forces moved rapidly into the area through Grafton and were victorious at the tiny skirmish called the Battle of Philippi , arguably the first land conflict of the war . His first personal command in battle was at Rich Mountain , which he also won , but only after displaying a strong sense of caution and a reluctance to commit reserve forces that would be his hallmark for the rest of his career . His subordinate commander , William S. Rosecrans , bitterly complained that his attack was not reinforced as McClellan had agreed . Nevertheless , these two minor victories propelled McClellan to the status of national hero . The New York Herald entitled an article about him " Gen. McClellan , the Napoleon of the Present War . " 
