Awaiting Orders

A Legacy

2009-08-23T17:56:00.000-07:00

What thoughts whirl through my mind, when I think about where many of us have been in the last few decades with Longstreet's Corps. I used to have a fairly accurate count of how many events I have attended, but alas, those numbers are quite nebulous now. Faces, names, jokes, camp and field stories all have a way of dissipating into the fog of time; even the details of so many battles, once vivid are now relegated to the backwaters of memory.

It is sad to ruminate upon those early days, with so many comrades having passed from the stage. Some simply have decided that the hobby took up too much time and precious money. Others had to make home and work come first, putting the hobby as a secondary importance. A few, I'm sure, just tired of the rigors and sought other pursuits. More than a few have left us for an eternity that we can only wonder about. Scarcely a unit in our Corps has been spared the ravages of death in its ranks. No rank has been immune to the final rollcall.

We have now lost two former Corps commanders. General James Maupin, friend to all in our hobby left us just days ago, a victim of a heart attack. I would like to think that he is, right now sitting with General Hillsman, kicking another log onto that fire which never burns out, going over strategy, hulling peanuts, and wondering what all this fuss back on Earth is about, over him and our other comrades. He would have to admit that his was a very special gathering of friends, as funerals go. Many old soldiers were there, especially from Jim's old 44th Virginia, many seen for the first time by some of us present for the first time in many years.

Those old faces, even if some had to be asked their names, were good to see again. In speaking with one old comrade I was reminded that this must have been how it was for the boys of '61-'65, with funerals becoming all too common. It is all in God's plan though. He knows what He is doing, and we are all on that rollcall, in His own good time.

So please, friends, don't be too sad when this happens with more frequency as we all get older. Let's keep each other in our prayers and enjoy the good times and good friends God gives us, while we still can. We are not promised tomorrow, only eternity, if we are true and faithful to His calling.

And as I've said to so many over the years, I'd like to think that a merciful and kind Father will allow us to be together again, in that great camp in the sky. Until that time comes for each of us, let us be reminded of what the pastor said at General Maupin's graveside, when he admonished us to bury our hatchets and our disagreements now, while we can still embrace one another in this life, and to dedicate ourselves and our efforts to the memories of those whom we love and have loved - not bad advice at all.

But for now, let us close ranks and carry on as we have been taught as soldiers and as men. And at the end of the day's march, let us lift a glass to the memory of our friend, mentor and General, James Maupin.

We must now devote our efforts to each other, as he devoted his to us. If we can do that, I know he will be well-pleased. Rest in Peace, General, and may God bless you in your new home.

Respectfully,
Colonel Greg Gallion

Camp of Instruction II

2009-04-20T13:03:00.000-07:00

Welcome back from the Camp of Instruction,

What? You couldn't attend? That's too bad, because you missed a good time. Though we only had a small turnout we had a good time and alot of learning took place. We even found an opportunity to have a tactical down in the woods below camp, Sunday morning.

We had some interesting classes Saturday; Captain John Douglass (our gracious host) gave a talk on the safety and usage of artillery, Rick Miller and Paul Pessagano spoke on and showed example of uniforms and period textiles and leather goods, Captain Barry Woods and General Cornett clarified some misconceptions from Gilham's, Stinky gave cooking demonstrations and shared tricks of the trade. These are just a few of the programs that were put together for our benefit.

Saturday night there was a fine pig roast with all the fixings, followed by games, entertainment, singing and all-round revelry. I'm really sorry you couldn't make it. The good news is that we are already talking about doing it again, next year. Maybe you can attend, because it just wasn't the same without you.

No, it wasn't all about drill, though units did some of that, too. Honestly it was all about being with your pards and all that entails. We think we're onto a good set of ideas for next year's COI, but we need to hear from you, because you might have just that right idea that none of us has thought of yet. Drop me a line at colgallioncos@longstreetscorps.com and I'll see that our planning committee gets your input. After all, it is your Corps.

Did I mention how good those sweet potatoes were? And those boys in the 5th! I didn't know they could sing! I guess you'll just have to experience it for yourself, next time.

I'll see you at New Market, next month. Are you registered yet? It's only $15.00 until April 30. It sounds like we're going to have a good turnout.

Until next time,

Colonel Gallion

Camp of Instruction

2009-04-06T11:11:00.000-07:00

Greetings to all,

Knocking off the rust; something we must all do in this hobby, from time to time. Some of us spend alot of time doing this while others do a bit less, what with buttons to sew, brogans to condition, muskets to maintain, tent loops to mend - the list is seemingly endless of things we should do, to keep a respectable impression. No matter the rank or station, we all have a list of things we should do.

How about your knowledge? Do you maintain that, too? Do you know what to do in the normal evolutions of company and battalion drill? Do you know where to be for your basic footwork? Do you know enough about loading and firing, to teach a new recruit or will you depend on your NCO's to do that? We expect our officers to know these things and more, but do you know the job of the man above and below you in rank, if you are needed to fill a spot?

How about if you find yourself detailed to help in the mess tent, or on a medical assignment? Do you know how to participate in or supervise a provost detail? What would you do if you, as senior Private, found yourself at an event as the senior man? Could you manage a squad of fellow Privates for a weekend? Officers, have you ever found yourself handling a battalion for the first time, because others could not attend an event?

The point is this; if you answered tentatively or uncertainly about any of the above inquiries, then we have just the opportunity for you. We have created a Camp of Instruction for the Corps, April 17-19, to address these and other concerns. The team of Lt. Eric Powell, Captain Jeff Noland and Lt. Tom Place have designed the classroom aspects of the Camp, and General Cornett and Staff are designing the tactical, drill and military essentials of the Camp. The event is being hosted by our own Major John Douglass, Adjutant of Artillery for the Corps. All the details are on the Corps Website, ably posted by Colonel Tony Zusman, easy to find, read and register for.

What's in it for you? A refresher course on diverse topics awaits. It is vital that we have a good turnout, as we kick off this new campaign season. Now, before you decry the economy or simply say, "It's not an event. I'm not coming." let me remind you that this is our Corps. We are only as good as our last performance, and gas is no cheaper for one of us than for another.

I urge you also to attend so that we might all enjoy Longstreet's Corps' 25th anniversary celebration, for which the committee has planned a pig roast, lots of story-telling, skits, singing and general entertainment. Come for the fun. Come for the comraderie. Come for the intrinsic value. Come because we need you. Come because you'll not get another chance to make these kinds of memories. Come so we can all get better at what we do. Come to keep from pulling weeds. Just come. You'll be glad you did.

Someday we all will be too old for this, and we'll wish we had all been there together. The committee and a whole bunch of others have already made contributions of time and talent for the sake of all of us. What will you do?

I'll see you there.

Colonel Gallion

Chief-of-Staff

Some good reading

2009-01-25T16:36:00.000-08:00

What have you read lately, while waiting for the next campaign? Maybe some fiction or historical fiction? Sports? Biography? The culturally popular how-to books? I'll bet you have read a few from these genre, but I'll also guess you stuck with the tried and true history selections that you cut your teeth on, those topics that have allure for the reenactor.

When you read history, is your preference the War Between the States, or do you venture into other time frames as well? I have my favorites, like Freeman's Lee's Lieutenants, especially the final fifty pages of volume three, in which the reader is treated to a pass-in-review of all the ghosts of the Army of Northern Virginia. I'm also fond of Confederate autoboigraphy such as the admittedly flawed From Manassas to Appomattox, by General Longstreet, and the excellent Fighting For the Confederacy, by Colonel Alexander.

When craving tactical studies, I gravitate to a few of the more modern volumes such as Shenandoah 1862, by Peter Cozzens, about Jackson's Valley Campaign, and the solid analysis of Gordon Rhea's fine works on the Wilderness and Spotsylvania. Strategically speaking, I enjoy still, the myriad volumes by Bruce Catton, which I read as a kid. To each his own.

I also enjoy reading Napoleonic works, and have a special interest in the German Army in Russia, 1941-1944. Field Marshall von Manstein's Lost Victories is a particular favorite of mine, as are Paul Carrell's works, Hitler Moves East and Scorched Earth.

For each of these I prefer a good set of maps to accompany the reading and study. I can be found sprawled out on the floor of my library, awash in pulpwood, oblivious to the world and its status. What about you? What do you read? Please drop me a line and we'll compare notes. I'm sure we can recommend some more good reads to each other and our comrades.

Respond to this blog, or e-mail me at colgallioncos@longstreetscorps.com. I'll be glad to hear from you. Until next time.

Respectfully,
Colonel Gallion

What a Year!

2008-09-18T12:05:00.000-07:00

Fellow Longstreet's Corps Comrades,

First, allow me to apologize for not having posted anything new in a long while. I will do better. This has been a whirlwind year for me, as your Chief-of-Staff, with many demanding and challenging turns. Nothing really eart-shattering has come my way, but as many of you know, taking on new and larger responsibilities, can be a gradual process.

Gettysburg was a watershed event for "Getting me over the hump" in handling the logistics of not only Longstreet's Corps, but also in creating new friendships and alliances, and trying to make smooth cooperations with our brother organizations. I must say, this is all very exciting, and I tend to do my best work when I am run ragged, between juggling these responsibilities and duties with those of home and the workplace. I have now seen firsthand, just how well units and parent organizations of disparate backgrounds can come together, to deliver a quality event, with a minimum of snags.

My belated thanks go out, not only to all the hard working members of Longstreet's Corps Staff, but to every man and woman of the Corps, regardless of your rank or station. Everyone saw the Rubicon and crossed it, with great zeal and skill. Well done to all! I'm sorry these well-deserved words are tardy, yet they are sincerely felt .

I like the direction we are heading; words that are no doubt trite, yet far from cliche. The spirit of the Corps, our Corps seems to be quite good. As I made my way through the camps and formations, at Gettysburg I was taken with how positive everyone I encountered was. Though some logistical barriers presented themselves, all whom I spoke with, bore their lot with good humor. I'd have to say it was the best Gettysburg I have been to, since the 125th, in 1988. You, my friends, are the largest reason for that sentiment. Your willingness to be led and your professionalism of arms, were noted by many from outside our ranks. You may think no one notices your great deeds, but you are highly visible and keenly regarded, by many whom you may never meet.

As we prepare our kits for Cedar Creek, may we all travel with God's grace, to join in yet another of what I like to call, "magic moments" in re-enacting. Until we meet in camp and upon the battle line I remain,

Your Obedient Servant,
Colonel Gallion

"What Corps Are We?"

2008-05-14T07:55:00.000-07:00

How many times over many years have we marched to those words, while passing in review or returning to camp on a Sunday, the event about to end? Those martial words ring as true, and cause us to quicken our step with pride, just as they must have similarly done for the boys in gray, whom we honor. And, isn't that why we do this, ultimately - to honor those whom we deem worthy of our praise and adulation?

Indeed, what Corps are we? Are we the same group of stalwarts who harken back to those early days, when our General Hillsman formed the Corps? Are we those veterans who saw the continuation of that dream, upon his passing, under the guiding hand of General Maupin? Are we the men of General Shoemake's command, with whom we shared many arduous campaigns? Are we the rank and file and officers who bear witness to General Cornett's leadership? And, where shall we be in ten years, nay, twenty and beyond, when we shall be too feeble to stand our posts?

The Corps is a living, breathing thing, full of heritage, honor, devotion, and comraderie. You see, the leadership of this Corps has always understood that we belong to a timeless, tireless assemblage, whose face is ever-changing, yet absorbed in the mirror of memories, a thing which cannot really be described, except by those of us who have helped shape it. We are the Corps. It is us. Its essence cannot be adequately conveyed to any but those who share its facets and its goodness. It is, as General Jackson might have said of it, "a providential thing." We are blessed to call it our home, our inspiration.

As we near the six-month anniversary of this new command, let us all vow to rally around the history, the hopes and dreams, and the true meaning of what we experience together, and to each renew our zeal for what we value most - each other, and what we bring to this sacrament table we call Longstreet's Corps.

I'll see you around the camp.

Colonel Gallion

Where has the time gone?

2008-03-04T11:20:00.000-08:00

It seems like yesterday that I was a rifle-toting groundpounder, following Captain Ray Oakes into mischief and battle. Those were some good days with the Danville Grays and all our brother units that comprised the Corps. A lot of events have come and gone in the twenty-two years since that sojourn began for me, and for us. In that time I have made some of the best and most steadfast friends a man could hope to acquire.

More faces have vanished into the abyss of time, than I can recollect. Gone are the days when Privates Mike Philyaw, Dave Cornett and myself were young bucks, inseparable and irrascible, in camp and in battle. The world was ours and only work and family got in the way of our, and countless others' martial hobby. To borrow words from General D. H. Hill, "We were lavish of blood in those days...." We thought little of the future of re-enacting, only living for the thrill of the moment, whether it was charging with Captain Frank Webber through tick-infested fields at Staunton River Bridge, or watching Sergeant Vic Middlekauff teach us all how to do skirmish drill at Petersburg.

Little did we know that one day some of our pards would not return to ranks, for various reasons. Like leaves from a tree, the scythe of time reaped a harvest of our friends and comrades, leaving our hearts sad and our camps and ranks delolate. I think it must have been like that, for all those stalwarts of 1861, who making it to Appomattox still alive, must have looked back upon those halcyon years of carnage with chagrined memory over those never again to be heard from or seen. I feel like a lost child, over twenty years later, and I miss all the fellows who helped make me welcome and proficient in this hobby.

Time, illness, divorce, bankruptcy, even death itself, have all caught up with many of our pards, and I now think I have at least a glimmer of how the old boys in gray must have felt. Don't get me wrong, we could never do what they did, no way, no how. It's just the pathos I understand a little better now. The old ranks can never again be reassembled. The trails of two hundred campaigns have left ragged the once youthful visage of my bright-eyed comrades, and in the words of the poet, Yeatts, "I grow old. I grow old. I shall wear my trousers rolled."

We will not see each other very often once we hang up the tunic that last time, just an occasional visit to the camps, no longer seeing many familiar faces. There shall be for us no "old soldiers' home" where we will while away the hours, regaling each other in tales of glory and hilarity. Yet in each other's minds, we shall be young, fervent, and happy, each of us our own sleeping Merlin, to be awakened by some future generation that needs some sort of heroes. We may some day no longer be able to march in step, or even keep time, yet we will have the memories that will keep us forever young, reminding us of the magical seasons we spent together.......once upon a time.

To the sacred memory of all our comrades whom we shall see on the other side.

Colonel Gallion

February Update

2008-02-12T09:13:00.000-08:00

Comrades,

This week's blog is designed to give you all some updates on how things are shaping up for upcoming events. I have begun dialog with event organizers, for next month's Endview. Details are still being worked out, for logistics, bivouac, and Corps involvement. It would be very helpful to know from each company, how many military personnel and how many civilian dependents will be in attendance. A rough idea of your tentage will also help in determining our quota of acreage for our camps. Please get this to me at colgallionCOS@longstreetscorps.com as soon as possible.

Chancellorsville is still a work in progress, with nothing to report at this time. Contacts will be made soon, and when there is news for this event, it will be posted in a subsequent blog, on this site.

Gettysburg is well under way, for planning purposes. Senior staff accompanied General Cornett to Gettysburg, for a February 2nd and 3rd, planning summit with event organizers. Basic camps for all three branches have been laid out, and logistical matters are being dealt with, daily. I know many of you have registered for this event already. It will be most helpful to hear from company commanders of each branch, how your numbers are looking, so the most efficient military camp may be designed for our use. Use the same link above, to report these numbers.

At this point I can report that there will be a minimum of two battalions for Longstreet's corps. A third may yet be implemented. General Cornett has already inherited command of all Confederate forces (a fact established long before Corps Meeting, as most of you already know). The Corps will be under the direct command of Brevet Brigadier General Terry Shelton, with battalion commands being assigned to Brevet Colonels Jerry Markham and Tim Smith.

Much more information is in the works, for future correspondence. Do not hesitate to contact me, regarding any assistance I may be for your company's affairs. Again, I look forward to working with each of you, in the furtherance of our Corps.

What Corps are we!!!!???

Your Obedient,
Colonel Gallion
Chief-of-Staff

Attention To Orders

2008-02-05T13:53:00.000-08:00

Welcome to my blogsite. This page will be used to communicate with officers and men of Longstreet's Corps, on a variety of subjects. Primarily, information about events, requests for numbers and registrations, and orders transmitted for the Corps will be found here. Along the line I will post topics of interest for the good of the Corps' personnel.

I look forward to the task before me, as your new Chief-of-Staff. With your help we will advance the Corps into its bright future, with an eye on those who have guided it thus far. An e-mail account has been set up, by which you may contact me with Corps business. To e-mail me for such purposes please go to: colgallionCOS@longstreetscorps.com

If I may assist any of you in any way just get in touch with me. I'll respond in a timely fashion. These are exciting times, to be shared with good comrades. With troops such as you no commander could fail to achieve his objective.

As my first official duty, I will appreciate anticipated numbers for Endview (March 14-16), Chancellorsville I (April 4-6) and Gettysburg (July 3-6). Please include your tentage for all ranks in your e-mail report (listed above). Those of you who wish to register for the Battle of Liberty (Bedford) can either contact me directly, or by contacting: http://www.livingliberty.org/

Until we meet upon the field of honor, I remain,
Your Obedient.
Colonel Gallion