The unit was chiefly organized andcommanded by Lt. Col. Vincent A. Witcher. Early in the war, Witcher and the 1st Battalion Virginia Mounted Rifles (precursor to the 34th) developed a dual reputation. One Confederate officer commented that Witcher could not pass up a farm that had a fine horse in the field. Most disparaging remarks, however were initiated by the bitter John b. Floyd, a political general and past governor of Virginia. Merited or not, Floyd's use of polemics helped to establish a tainted reputation for the unit, that was perpetuated by Yankee officers. Witcher and the 34th Battalion were greatly appreciated by other Confederate officers though. The immortal J.E.B. Stuart and Robert E. Lee, each highly praised the unit, and Stuart wrote an enviable commendation for Witcher. The unit, more often than not, was placed in the forefront of action. Brigade commanders were cibfudebt if the 34th ability to fight and emerge from even the most dangerous situations.