Battle of Five Forks
Since much of the recent action had occurred west of Petersburg, in particular the Battle of Five Forks, the Confederate strength due south and east of Petersburg was considerably weakened. Gordon noted only 5,500 men were available to hold over of line. Major General Bryan Grimes's division of 2,200 men held of line between the Crater and Battery No. 45, including the defenses around Fort Mahone.