Thomas finally comes out of his fortifications…

Thomas finally comes out of his fortifications on December 15 to start a two-phase attack on the Confederates.

The first, but secondary, attack is to by Steedman on the Confederate right flank.

The main attack will be on the enemy's left, by Smith, Wood, and Brig.

General Edward Hatch (commanding a dismounted cavalry brigade).

Steedman's attack keeps Cheatham on the Confederate right occupied for the rest of the day.

The main attack wheels left to a line parallel to the Hillsboro Pike.

By noon, the main advance has reached the pike, and Wood prepares to assault the Confederate outposts on Montgomery Hill, near the center of the line.

Hood becomes concerned about the threat on his left flank and orders Lee to send reinforcements to Stewart.

Wood's corps takes Montgomery Hill in a charge by Brig.

General Samuel Beatty's division.

At about 1 p.m., there is a salient in Hood's line at Stewart's front.

Thomas orders Wood to attack the salient, supported by Schofield and Wilson.

By 1:30 p.m., Stewart's position along the pike becomes untenable; the attacking force is overwhelming.

Stewart's corps breaks and begins to retreat toward the Granny White Turnpike.

However, Hood is able to regroup his men toward nightfall in preparation for the battle the next day.

The Union cavalry under Wilson have been unable to put enough force on the turnpike to hamper the Confederate movement, since many of its troopers are participating as dismounted infantry in the assault.

The exhausted Confederates dig in all night, awaiting the arrival of the Federals.