Most of the folliwing report is from the Adjutant of 2nd Regiment.  He summed up the event well enough and as he said, there are many stories to be told by each company, and we certainly had ours.  We joined up with the PRVC for the battle of the Wheatfield and went out as the Reserves that we are.  I must say, though, that the battle was lack-lustre and seemed as though the General didn't want to be troubled with dealing with our part of the days action.  So, we did a fair share of shooting and dying and marching around in the "damn dirty dust".  We were all so tired and cooked beyond "medium" that we did very little card playing or anything else.  Some of us made it out to the 'burg and had some ice cream and others made the rounds at the sutlers.  All in all, a nice weekend with 50% nasty weather and 50% nice, but we all came back with some nice tan lines :P.  So, enjoy the following report, and I'll see everyone again soon.

Your humble servant,

Capt. Bob V

To the members of Second Regiment:

 

Though voiceless, I bring you Colonel Swope's warmest compliments. If you were not able to attend Gettysburg this year, you were missed. In trying to sum up the event, I can only think of one word that truly encompasses the spirit of our time together: fun! What fun we had.

 

Some arrived Wednesday, with the bulk of the remainder arriving Thursday, and few more trickling in Saturday and Sunday. Captain Cameron Mallow through his efforts succeeded in bringing a company of the 7th WV based in California to join us for the event. For a number of others in the regiment, this was their first event. We had six battles in total, and managed to burn our skin along with a great deal of powder. Thursday's battle was in the sticky, humid, suffocating heat of a Pennsylvania summer, while Friday morning brought a steady, misty rain during much of the long, snaking march and subsequently long battle, being under arms for over three hours that morning, if memory serves. Friday finally cleared and the more pleasant weather prevailed the remainder of the event. During one of the engagements, our majors both found themselves wounded and Lieutenant DeShong and Captain Baran found themselves wing commanders for a time. Both acquitted themselves well in the roles suddenly thrust upon them. Beyond that, the battles and smoke all tend to blur together.

 

But while the battles were fun, the events in camp were, in a word, epic! The Sergeant Major was in full voice, as is his style. However his efforts were not in vain, as a rumor that somebody had been "taking" from the green "latrines" indeed led to blue "water" being found in a poor soldier's canteen. On Friday night, the 142nd Co. F finally had the party which should have taken place Saturday night at Cedar Creek last year, for Keith MacGregor's retirement as captain. The party had a Viking theme complete with swords, shields, helmets, wigs and a life-sized bow to a viking long ship. It appears the new saying around the regiment is "to the boat!" By some miracle, they kept the pillaging to their own company fly and street. Saturday night was the dance, and wanting the regiment to be represented honorably, the adjutant and sergeant major took it upon themselves to inspect the lads who wished to attend the dance. Sergeant Taylor of the 54th PA attempted to depart camp to pick up his date for the dance in a state that may at best be described as "clothed". However, after the Sergeant Major pointed out the finer points of fashion to the Sergeant, Sergeant Major Myers and Major Murphy kindly dipped into their belongings and produced sash, NCO belt, and white gloves to assist Sergeant Taylor in his presentation. Come Sunday morning, however, the Sergeant Major finally got his comeuppance. Orders were received from the brigade provost for the arrest of the sergeant major, which the acting regimental provost, Captain Gallaher, carried out immediately following inspection. At this, the adjutant was distraught at the betrayal of his closest comrade, and the adjutant forgot himself, giving the sergeant major a taste of his own "medicine" before being turned over to the brigade provost, where he was forced to stand before the latrines for a time and inform all those who approached that no paper was at that time available. Needless to say, the charges against the sergeant major are serious and a courts martial will need to be convened at the earliest possible convenience (ie. next event).

 

Not all, however, was high jinks and shenanigans. While not quite there yet, our ability as a regiment to wheel showed progress and the efforts from Campbell's Run to the present show. Before battle on Sunday, it came to Major Murphy's attention that Private Dante Seal was not longer going to just play a private, but had enlisted and was going to be shipping out for basic training a number of days after the event. The regiment came to attention and reverently rendered honors to Private Seal in appreciation. Also, Shelly Holcomb of the 3rd MD, Co. B in First Regiment begins her first deployment overseas the first of the year.

 

There are many people to thank for their efforts: Two ladies, Shelby Bard (3rd MD Co. D) and Caroline Curtis (adjutant's wife) volunteered their services as ice angels when needed. Also, before Sunday's battle two ladies of the 54th PA, Leslie Taylor and Nancy Johnson, went along the regiment's line kindly passing out apples and oranges to the troops. Captain Gallaher of the 54th PA, graciously agreed to act as regimental provost for the event, bearing his responsibility without complaint. Also, for those who were not able to attend, you missed out on some ice cold fresh squeezed homemade lemonade which was provided to the entire regiment following one of the battles.

 

Above is just a taste of our combined experiences at Gettysburg this year. For every story told, there are many more each of you has from the event. What we hope all of you experienced, is that you had fun while participating in this hobby we all share. On behalf of Colonel Swope, Major Petro, Major Murphy, and Sergeant Major Myers, thank you soldiers and civilians for giving us the privilege of leading you. Without you, there is no regiment.

 

Concerning October, efforts are being made to replace Cedar Creek with something else. After this past event, it would sure be a shame to let a chance to reenact together pass by. Once plans become known, they will be passed along to the regiment. In the meantime, while not a brigade event, many of use are attending Renfrew, and I will be asking for numbers for planning purposes in the coming weeks. The long tactical will take place again this year, so bring plenty of rounds and your aggressive fighting spirit!

 

Until then,

I proudly remain,

your most humble and obedient adjutant,

 

Capt. Brian Curtis

     For company D, this was a campaign event.  We portrayed infantry on the move and brought with us only what would be carried on the march and handed out rations consisting of hardtack and salt beef for the mens daily food.

    I need  to give a special shout out to Sgt. Thompson and Pvt. Yoder who actually marched 10 miles with full backpacks, haversacks, canteens, blanket roll and a 14 Lb. weapon to get to this event.  All while in full uniform including brogans.  Wow - talk about living the history.  I never thought they could do it.

    This was a small, local, living history event held at Robert Fultons birthplace complete with house, gardens and surrounding grounds.  They had the normal Yank & Reb encampments, a blacksmith, and about 10 reenactors portraying various generals who gave 1st person talks and answered questions, etc.  This type of event tends to be fairly farby which this one was, but overall, a decent event.  Did not seem to be very well attended by spectators, but it rained on and off during the day, so the weather may have kept people away.  We had an afternoon battle which was very small.  The 8 members of Co. D was the entire infantry.  the Rebs only had artillery, so they sent some guys out with rifles to act as infantry.  They also gave us a gun so we could have an artillery duel.  The battle only lasted about 20 minutes, but in spite of the small numbers, was actually a decent battle and I think we put on a good show.

    After the battle, due to lack of spectators in our camp, the boys went up to the main activity area where Pvt. Whitley got out his guitar.  They seemed to have a good time singing, visiting, and relaxing.

    The evening meal was provided by Pvt. Whitley who had pitched a tent in the main area and had a ham on a spit cooking all day.  It was a difficult choice which they liked better - the hardtack or ham, but all decided the ham was just a little bit better.  Go figure.

Respectfully submitted,

1Lt. R. Cornwell

Commanding Co. D

    Our yearly meeting was a good one with 4 new members in attendance.  We had a great time looking at some 3-d photos that Chaplain Mills brought with him and had lots of conversations.  The food was good, but the room we were in was crowded and noisy.  This is not a good place to hold a meeting any more.  I will search for a new venue for next year.  We accomplished much and have a couple of new events to do this year.  Everyone is looking forward to a great new year of reenacting.  My thanks to everyone who took the time to attend and bring input.  Oh, and 2Sgt. Thompson got his stripes!!  Congratulation  Jonathan!

Your servant,

Capt. Bob

153rd Cedar Creek, After Action Report

Oct. 13-15, 2017

 

Only 4 people went to Cedar Creek this year. Lt. Cornwell, 1stSgt. Farmer, Pvt. Yoder, & Pvt. Fasnacht. Upon arrival, found the camps in an organized state of chaos. The engineers did not come and pre set the camps, so field officers were trying to define the streets. We managed to get set up and passed a pleasant evening visiting and playing cards. Saturday morning we joined with the 142nd PA and 3rd MD to form a company of about 14 men. Together we attended dress parade and company/battalion drill. After drill, Company D went to the sutlers where Lt. Cornwell picked up a frock coat which had been a surprise gift from the members of Co. D. 1:15 brought 1st call for the 3:00 pm battle of Winchester. As normal, the brigade marched the longest possible route to get to our starting point, then stacked arms and did the hurry up and wait routine until the battle finally commenced. It was a typical battle where we attacked the rebs, blew a lot of powder, got pushed back, burned more powder, fell back, fought some more, until we had been pushed back to our cannons where the battle ended. As we fell back, the first time Jacob & Brian ran away. Brian came back to the lines, but Jacob was seen hiding behind a big tree. We lost track of him in all the smoke and confusion, but I believe he was either killed or captured by the rebs. On our last stand, the 1st Sgt. was badly wounded and Brian, saying he didn't want to die, tried to run again. The poor lad had eyes filled with fear and confusion as the Lt. grabbed him and forced him back in line telling him if he had to die, to do it like a man.

After the battle, we had mail call where the company received a box from home containing news papers, candles, cookies, applesauce, and some mighty fine pumpkin bread.

We were about to go to the sutlers when we were told that event staff requested that no one go to the sutlers until further notice. As we sat in camp wondering what was going on, several fire trucks came down the camp road. Other trucks and alot of flashing lights could be seen on the main road. Officers were called to a meeting at Federal HQ which started a series of meetings every 15 minutes or so throughout the evening. We were informed that a pipe bomb had been found in the sutler area. Camps were locked down -no one could come in or go out - the highway had been shut down and state police, FBI and ATF were all on the way. Police wanted to evacuate us and search our camps. General Markijohn said not to unless the order came from our command staff, but to have food, water, needed medication, etc. ready to take, just in case. As the General was telling us not to evacuate, someone came through camps and began evacuating our troops. That was soon stopped and all returned to camp. Each company searched their camps and tents to be sure we were clear of devices. A FOR REAL guard mount was posted to be sure no one went in or out. FVB commanders then searched every camp and every tent. We knew a lot of camps had already evacuated, in fact, a group from the living history camp was brought to ours for a place to stay. In short, it was an evening filled with confusion, unanswered questions, and much uncertainty. FVB command staff was very busy, but calm and proffesional. Due to the actions they took and the negotiations with law enforcement, it became unnecessary for us to evacuate.

We couldn't leave camp, so of course the Saturday night dance was cancelled as well as the early morning Sunday tactical. The annual soiree sponsored by the FVB command staff was held as normal and we tried to have as normal a night as we could. It was certainly quieter than the night before. Company D finally got some food and played some cards. We could tell from the flashing lights and glow in the sky from the sutler area, that there was still a lot of activity going on. At one point the guys heard what sounded like a muffled explosion and felt the ground shake, but we didn't know what it was. We found out the next morning that the bomb squad determined that the bomb was too unstable to move, so they detonated it where it was.

Sunday morning we didn't know if we would have activities or just head home. We did roll call, weapons inspection, and turned in our reports as normal. Looking down the row of camps, all was normal. No one was packing up, just getting breakfast and sitting around just like any other morning. We got the word that we would have dress parade and shortly thereafter do the battle reenactment. Apparently, CCBF had cancelled all activities but the reenactors did not. We would not be driven from the field! We held dress parade, then marched off to meet the "enemy". As the FVB marched toward the rebs, we saw other brigades at full strength out in front of us. Also, saw some people along the spectator line and others lined up outside the fence by the highway. Apparently the FVB were not the only ones to take a stand.

We hit the enemy hard with volley after volley, but couldn't break their lines. We got pushed back and pushed back as is always the case in the battle of Cedar Creek. We finally held our ground and while very close to the rebel army, we exchanged many volleys. Normally this is the time Sheridan would ride up and we would push the rebs back and save the day. But orders were given to charge, and charge we did, right into the rebel lines and went hand to hand with them. This was not part of the plan, and our general tried to get us to fall back, which we finally did, but it was too late. The bugles sounded and the battle ended. Normally after the battle ends, we clear weapons and go back to camp. This day was different. The battle had seemed more intense than previous battles, and emotions ran high. Instead of walking away, both lines moved toward eachother - blue mixed with grey. People were shaking hands; rebs and yanks were hugging eachother - thanking eachother for coming out. We were no longer yanks and rebs - we were simply all reeanctors and we were brothers! Our band began playing Dixie, flags were being waved, shouts of "USA, USA,USA" rang out. Tears were in many eyes and the emotion felt by all was so deep, it was overwhelming. There is just no way that what we felt could be put into words. Our general later said that in his 27 years of reenacting, he has never seen such an outpouring of raw emotion. When we finally reformed our liines and reb and yank again faced eachother, both sides presented arms to the other. After many "hip-hip-hazahs", we parted ways and headed back to camp. While breaking camp we heard the sutlers were still open for business. I guess they wont be driven from the field either.

If I might paraphrase Abraham Lincoln: the reenacting community may little note, nor long remember what was said here, but they will never forget what they felt here. . . .

BEST CEDAR CREEK - EVER!!

Respectfully submitted by

Your most obedient servant,

1Lt. Richard Cornwell

153rd Cedar Creek, After Action Report

Oct. 13-15, 2017

 

Only 4 people went to Cedar Creek this year. Lt. Cornwell, 1stSgt. Farmer, Pvt. Yoder, & Pvt. Fasnacht. Upon arrival, found the camps in an organized state of chaos. The engineers did not come and pre set the camps, so field officers were trying to define the streets. We managed to get set up and passed a pleasant evening visiting and playing cards. Saturday morning we joined with the 142nd PA and 3rd MD to form a company of about 14 men. Together we attended dress parade and company/battalion drill. After drill, Company D went to the sutlers where Lt. Cornwell picked up a frock coat which had been a surprise gift from the members of Co. D. 1:15 brought 1st call for the 3:00 pm battle of Winchester. As normal, the brigade marched the longest possible route to get to our starting point, then stacked arms and did the hurry up and wait routine until the battle finally commenced. It was a typical battle where we attacked the rebs, blew a lot of powder, got pushed back, burned more powder, fell back, fought some more, until we had been pushed back to our cannons where the battle ended. As we fell back, the first time Jacob & Brian ran away. Brian came back to the lines, but Jacob was seen hiding behind a big tree. We lost track of him in all the smoke and confusion, but I believe he was either killed or captured by the rebs. On our last stand, the 1st Sgt. was badly wounded and Brian, saying he didn't want to die, tried to run again. The poor lad had eyes filled with fear and confusion as the Lt. grabbed him and forced him back in line telling him if he had to die, to do it like a man.

After the battle, we had mail call where the company received a box from home containing news papers, candles, cookies, applesauce, and some mighty fine pumpkin bread.

We were about to go to the sutlers when we were told that event staff requested that no one go to the sutlers until further notice. As we sat in camp wondering what was going on, several fire trucks came down the camp road. Other trucks and alot of flashing lights could be seen on the main road. Officers were called to a meeting at Federal HQ which started a series of meetings every 15 minutes or so throughout the evening. We were informed that a pipe bomb had been found in the sutler area. Camps were locked down -no one could come in or go out - the highway had been shut down and state police, FBI and ATF were all on the way. Police wanted to evacuate us and search our camps. General Markijohn said not to unless the order came from our command staff, but to have food, water, needed medication, etc. ready to take, just in case. As the General was telling us not to evacuate, someone came through camps and began evacuating our troops. That was soon stopped and all returned to camp. Each company searched their camps and tents to be sure we were clear of devices. A FOR REAL guard mount was posted to be sure no one went in or out. FVB commanders then searched every camp and every tent. We knew a lot of camps had already evacuated, in fact, a group from the living history camp was brought to ours for a place to stay. In short, it was an evening filled with confusion, unanswered questions, and much uncertainty. FVB command staff was very busy, but calm and proffesional. Due to the actions they took and the negotiations with law enforcement, it became unnecessary for us to evacuate.

We couldn't leave camp, so of course the Saturday night dance was cancelled as well as the early morning Sunday tactical. The annual soiree sponsored by the FVB command staff was held as normal and we tried to have as normal a night as we could. It was certainly quieter than the night before. Company D finally got some food and played some cards. We could tell from the flashing lights and glow in the sky from the sutler area, that there was still a lot of activity going on. At one point the guys heard what sounded like a muffled explosion and felt the ground shake, but we didn't know what it was. We found out the next morning that the bomb squad determined that the bomb was too unstable to move, so they detonated it where it was.

Sunday morning we didn't know if we would have activities or just head home. We did roll call, weapons inspection, and turned in our reports as normal. Looking down the row of camps, all was normal. No one was packing up, just getting breakfast and sitting around just like any other morning. We got the word that we would have dress parade and shortly thereafter do the battle reenactment. Apparently, CCBF had cancelled all activities but the reenactors did not. We would not be driven from the field! We held dress parade, then marched off to meet the "enemy". As the FVB marched toward the rebs, we saw other brigades at full strength out in front of us. Also, saw some people along the spectator line and others lined up outside the fence by the highway. Apparently the FVB were not the only ones to take a stand.

We hit the enemy hard with volley after volley, but couldn't break their lines. We got pushed back and pushed back as is always the case in the battle of Cedar Creek. We finally held our ground and while very close to the rebel army, we exchanged many volleys. Normally this is the time Sheridan would ride up and we would push the rebs back and save the day. But orders were given to charge, and charge we did, right into the rebel lines and went hand to hand with them. This was not part of the plan, and our general tried to get us to fall back, which we finally did, but it was too late. The bugles sounded and the battle ended. Normally after the battle ends, we clear weapons and go back to camp. This day was different. The battle had seemed more intense than previous battles, and emotions ran high. Instead of walking away, both lines moved toward eachother - blue mixed with grey. People were shaking hands; rebs and yanks were hugging eachother - thanking eachother for coming out. We were no longer yanks and rebs - we were simply all reeanctors and we were brothers! Our band began playing Dixie, flags were being waved, shouts of "USA, USA,USA" rang out. Tears were in many eyes and the emotion felt by all was so deep, it was overwhelming. There is just no way that what we felt could be put into words. Our general later said that in his 27 years of reenacting, he has never seen such an outpouring of raw emotion. When we finally reformed our liines and reb and yank again faced eachother, both sides presented arms to the other. After many "hip-hip-hazahs", we parted ways and headed back to camp. While breaking camp we heard the sutlers were still open for business. I guess they wont be driven from the field either.

If I might paraphrase Abraham Lincoln: the reenacting community may little note, nor long remember what was said here, but they will never forget what they felt here. . . .

BEST CEDAR CREEK - EVER!!

Respectfully submitted by

Your most obedient servant,

1Lt. Richard Cornwell

The FVB & the 153rd Cedar Creek

They found "the thing".

They told us to depart.

But we determined right from the start,

no cretin coward would chase us away

and at Cedar Creek ..... we decided to stay.

Any army would be proud of the leadership displayed -

guard mounts were posted, we even "swarayed".

That night around campfires big and small,

likely, soul-searching was done by all.

The next morning at Dress Parade - no need for dismay,

the numbers showed nearly all the FVB had stayed!

Later when the battle was done -

blue and gray merged - two armies became one.

I wish I could explain my emotions, and those of the others.

But in the end we all stood as - AMERICAN Brothers!

Hopefully there will be more Cedar Creeks each fall.

If so, or if not, - the 153rd will be the most remembered by all.

      - 1Sgt. Richard Farmer (aka - Walt Witman)

    I will suffice this report as reported so well by the adjutant.  I will add that it was a pleasure to have the 149th join us for the weekend.  Very nice time enjoyed by all and as most eveyone there from our company had not been there before, I believe they will all want to return next year.

Submitted,

Capt. Bob VanderPlate

Gentlemen,

 

I bring you Major Petro's greetings and compliments on a job well done this weekend at Renfrew. While not a brigade event, in attendance was a good portion of second regiment: 1st PA Reserves; 149th PA; 142nd PA, Co F; and the 11th PA. We also had the 28th PA from the Mifflin Guard join us. The 7th WV was represented by Captain mallow, who was on hand Friday night and Saturday morning for the tactical, working as a staff officer, a job he carried out with great energy and enthusiasm. The battalion was under the command of Major Petro, while Colonel Swope is home on furlough.

 

The weekend started off early....very early....Saturday morning as we formed up and set picket lines to gather information and counter whatever the Confederates had in store for the tactical. The 1st Reserves, 149th, and 28th were close to camp on the west side of Antietam Creek while the 142nd and 11th set up in the woods on the far side of the creek. The Confederates lost no time in hitting the companies near camp hard, begrudgingly driving them back. Major Petro commented that those soldiers formed a stout picket line that only gave way when faced with overwhelming force, allowing the remainder of the brigade to prepare to meet the Confederates. The 1st Reserves and 149th managed to make it back to the main body while the 28th PA was cut off. Though after awhile, they were able to rejoin the fight. In the woods, the 142nd and 11th had a rather different experience. Two young ladies were on a "stroll" that morning and come into our picket line. Such a ruse was quickly recognized and the ladies were taken back to Union camp and "invited" to spend the morning (at least until the firing started) as "guests" of the brigade musicians (who were the only soldiers left in camp). Later, it was reported that the ladies tried multiple times to escape, but were thwarted by the musicians. Meanwhile, the Confederate soldiers following the ladies were pounced upon by the pickets of the 142nd and 11th. Compliments to those two companies for having a picket line concealed such that neither the Confederate ladies or soldiers realized it was there until our soldiers were upon them.

 

The fighting went on through the morning with some retreating and advancing (but more retreating) until the Union forces (now combined together as a brigade) had lured the Confederates into one heck of a trap. Two Union companies retreated, leapfrogging each other as they did, drawing the Confederate column down a wide, grassy path with a corn field on one side and woods on the other. Finally, with our backs to the end of the path and the Confederates thinking they had us cornered, a volley from an entire wing hidden in the trees ripped forth into the flank of the Confederates, causing many Rebs to jump and others to take hits because, well, when one is ambushed in such overwhelming style, what more can one do.

 

There was a break and then the tactical continued with a "Burnside's Bridge" start to the scenario, the bridge being the one in the rear of Union camp. Second Regiment decided to once again enter the woods and outflank the Confederates. We came upon their pickets and pushed them, finally ourselves getting tangled in the woods enough to force us out into the open of the electrical lines right-of-way. Once there, our dismounted Cav came upon us and we together pushed the Confederates on our front. Soon, we saw other Confederates in our more distant front, their backs to us and being pushed by a wing of First Regiment. We thought we had 'em and the boys let out a cheer! But then, like angry bees coming out of a kicked nest, Confederates came pouring from the woods on our front and all fell upon Second Regiment, pushing us back and cutting us off, soon after which the cease fire sounded ending the second tactical. The overall Confederate commander came up to us and complimented our tactics, saying we had them in quite a pinch, so he chose to break out towards us and threw almost his entire force against Second Regiment. The lads performed like disciplined veterans, moving quickly and standing tall as long as possible.

 

After another rest, there was a third tactical in the field which allowed the artillery to join the fun. Thereafter, there was a relaxing afternoon for the men and civilians. One of many enjoyable moments during that afternoon was the holding of a stacking arms competition among three squads, one each from the 1st Reserves, 28th PA, and 142nd PA, Co. F. As this was a quickly put together event, the only requirement was that the stacks stay up. Each squad, stacking arms three times and the total of all times being taken to determine a winner, had both excellent and needs-more-work stacks; but, the 28th PA prevailed in the end. There was much fun, and for some reason heckling of our Russian judge (all true olympic-type competitions must include a Russian judge). This may not be the last of the stacking arms competitions, and more will be required in the future than the stack simply not falling down. (Hint-hint!)

 

After a quick and drenching thunderstorm, a pleasant night was had by all.

 

Sunday brought dress parade with the Confederates, and a relaxing morning before falling in at 12:30 for the afternoon battle in the field. The soldiers in the ranks are complimented for the incredible volley while clearing weapons. It was truly outstanding and rang as a single cannon shot would through the woods and fields surrounding. The adjutant, however, could not quite contain his glee at such a display and subsequently forgot that after order arms comes "In place, REST," (not, as he called, "Shoulder, ARMS") causing much deserved laughter. The final battle was well fought with many causalities on both sides.

 

Major Petro would like to thank the men for their excellence in the field all weekend. It was a fun weekend, with lots of hard fighting and many laughs. Thank you to all who came out.

 

Next up, Cedar Creek.

 

Until then,

I remain,

Your humble and obedient servant,

 

Lt. Brian Curtis

Adjutant

Second Regiment

After Action report of Sgt. Kyle Sabol:

I arrived shortly after 1st Sgt Farmer (or this weekend, Private Farmer) and the Halton clan. Luckily for me, when I got there the Battalion was just finishing up drill. After briefly catching up with everyone, we reported to the 93rd PA under Captain Shirk who also had a few dismounted cavalry. We formed the company around 10:40 and we marched off to our position for battle. We were to defend a small “railroad bridge” from the Confederates who outnumbered us about 6 to 1. The 61st PA were on our far left flank preventing the Confederate cavalry from using the trails in the wood line to flank us. Of course, like most cavalry does, they used their horses to muscle through the union line. We advanced against some dismounted cav until 3 more companies of Confederate infantry appeared on the field. Out of nowhere, some New York boys joined the battle along the old fence line and slowed the extra Confederate forces for a little while. We were eventually driven back to the railroad bridge to make our last stand. The Confederate cavalry, (totally ignoring us), after volley after volley tied rope onto the bridge and drug it off, destroying it. There was about a 10 minute pause and our Drummer Boy Jack showed up! We reset the battlefield and prepared for another fight. Now, we were positioned along the fence line with the 61st to our left. We held our positions against outrageous odds. Our line slowly started to deteriorate from casualties. Private Halton attempted to make a run for it, but was shot by the 1st Sgt from the 61st. I attempted to run for cover as well, but was apprehended by the Major and forced back to the front lines. Jack, the brave lad that he is, went around to the dead and wounded and collected rounds for those still on the line. The fighting continued, until almost no union soldier was left. Major Monzi was hit and went down, seeing an opportunity, I took off, hoping to live to fight another day. As I passed the lifeless lump that used to be Private Halton, I looked back and saw Private Farmer limping off the field. I believe we were the only survivors. With the Union line utterly decimated a cease fire was called and companies reformed to clear weapons. We were dismissed and Company D rested under the shade of some trees to cool down. Once we were rested, we decided to go into Gettysburg for lunch and shopping since there was nothing else planned for the day. 1st Sgt Farmer decided to stay behind and toured the historic buildings at Union Mills. Heidi, myself and the Haltons drove into town and spent a few hours there going through several shops and of course, ending the day at Mr. G’s ice cream! Over all, it was an ok event, despite the low numbers on the Union side. The battle was alight, but it’s main saving grace is being so close to home. If we have better numbers next year, it might be worth doing again.

Respectfully submitted,

Sgt. K. Sabol

    Well, another parade under our belts.  I'm not sure how many of these we've done, but it's many!  Last year's parade was cancelled due to rain, so I think they organizers were determined to make this one work.  All together we had about 15 in our company which included the civilians.  It wasn't raining while we waited to start, just a fine mist, but then as we started to march a drizzle set in and lasted the entire time.  We loaded just as we stepped off - got around the block and fired our first round.  From then on we loaded and rammed paper, then went to 'secure arms' in order to keep our powder dry.  The parade was well attended and had a few new attendees - Ronald McDonald on a high unicycle was one, and a new tracked armored artillery piece of some sort was another.  Our friends, the Bucktails, bagged out this time (not sure why - they gave me no notice) but we were fine on our own anyway.  We stopped and fired about a dozen times before reaching the end, and when we passed by the reviewing stand, for the first time they actually got our unit right since the Bucktails weren't there.  Lots of spectators and lots of applause after we fired.  After a wet, but warm and long march, we got to the cemetary and started walking back to the American Legion for lunch.  As always, they had a nice lunch for us and it was nice to sit and dry out a bit.  About 12:30, the Chaplain, the Haltons, and I, were the last of our group to leave the Legion.  Another 5 blocks to the car (or was it 20:P) and we were headed home.  All in all, a good parade in spite of the rain.  Looking forward to this years Remembrance Day Parade.

Submitted,

Capt. Bob VanderPlate

      Well, another CCFM event under our belts, and what a time it was.  It was rainy, windy, cold, and more importantly, FUN!  In spite of the rather unpleasant weather, we had some really good fun.  Brian F. and myself were the only ones there Friday night, and we spent time talking around the campfire.  It was a reasonably nice evening, especially compared to the rest of the weekend.  Saturday morning arrived with the 1st Sgt. arriving just in time for dress parade - that made 3 of us for dress parade.  We "threw in" with the 93rd for the whole weekend (or they threw in with us), and we ended up with the largest unit there due to that.  As the moring wore on, more folks arrived and we ended up with about 7 in our ranks including officers.  With the inclusion of the 93rd, 1st company had about 13 in it.  The rains came that morning along with the newcomers, and the tactical battle that we always look forward to was cancelled.  So around 2 o'clock, we started the scripted battle for the spectators and the rain held off.  It was a bit better than the usual battle in that we added the "fort" to the scenario.  We had some good spectator turnout and they all seemed to enjoy  "the show".  We got back to camp and relaxed - played 'kubb' and cards, and at about 6 p.m. went for our chicken dinner.  I hope they continue to do that because it was fantastic.  After supper we gathered from the cold in my wall tent with my heater going and enjoyed a long game of '31'.  What a lot of fun.  We were all pretty tired and rapped things up around 9:30.  My hat's off to the Thompson's for braving the rain,wind and cold in a dog tent!  The next morning Kyle, Heidi, and their friend Andy showed up in time for dress parade.  The morning was nicer than Saturday and we thought we'd get in a tactical battle, but it was decided not to bother.  So we spent the morning making breakfast, staying warm by the fire, playing 'kubb', and doing some much needed drill.  So the battle started at 1:00 and we had 9 in our company plus 4 from the 93rd.  As scripted battles go, this one was great.  It actually ended up being a tactical - scripted battle and had a few unexpected engagements such as the capturing of one of our guns and a flank attack from some dismounted cavalry.  We were done by 1:45 and about out of rounds by then.  We marched back to camp and started packing up; they let us start driving in at 2:00 and it was all very smoothly done.  At about 3:30 I pulled out the gate and was home around 5.

As the CCFM event goes, this one was wet and lacked the usual tactical battle, but due to the rain, it couldn't be helped - it was raining very hard at noon.  Still, we made the best of it and had fun.  Our newest "fresh fish" had a great time as well and are looking forward to the next event.  I look forward to attending next year.

Submitted,

Capt. Bob VanderPlate