Thursday, August 16, 2012

From the Gettysburg 150th Federal Commander


To my brothers and sisters in arms,

Planning for the 150th National Gettysburg Anniversary Civil War Battle Reenactment has been underway for some time. In reality, it started back at the 135th Battle Reenactment as various groups came together to solidify the hobby and provide a great reenactment experience. For myself and the Command Staff of the First Federal Division Headquarters', the 140th and 145th were dress rehearsals to prepare the Staff and the event organizers for what will be a landmark event like the 125th Battle reenactment was. With all of this in mind, and the fact that many veteran reenactors have relayed to the command staffs that this will be their final swan song in the hobby, we must continue to push forward to provide the best experience for the troops. The military command and event staffs are meeting and communicating almost daily to ensure a well-planned event.

Camping areas, battlefield layout, amenities, support issues and event preparedness have all been key items of discussion. Additional stream crossings are being planned along with other site improvements. The phrase, "moving forward" has become the statement of my staff when dealing with this event. The planning will continue and commitments increased as needed when we get closer to the date. A Divisional Commanders meeting is planned for Remembrance Day and in mid-December. More will follow and the attendance broadened to make sure we reach all and address the needs of the units and the troops. We have also rearranged the website and improved it to be more reenactor friendly.

In closing with the theme of "moving forward," I am proud to announce that two of the four Federal Infantry Division Commands have been accepted. Brigadier General Ron Palase will command the 1st Federal Infantry Division and Brigadier General David Shackleford the 2nd Federal Infantry Division. I hope to name the other two Infantry Divisional Commands in the near future.

All involved continue to work tirelessly to make the 150th Gettysburg Battle Reenactment a memorable event for all.

Your Obedient Servant,

Major General Allen W. Baldwin
Commander Federal Forces

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