The battlefield was, as usual, practically a football field but with the leadership of Lt. Tackitt, it was a weekend of dynamic battles and too many confederate companies captured to count. Brigade drill time ate severely into our regular company drill but even with new recruits and extreme heat, we performed honorably.
Our newest recruits, privates Hilton and Moran proved to be exceptionally fast and observant learners, dedicated, and hardworking. Both put in so much time on fatigue duty, often without being asked. We are so happy they decided to join the Berdan family and can't wait to see them at our next event. It's really important to honor our runners, Pvt. Doramus and Moran. In Company D, everyone works his or her way up and works hard. When young recruits come in, we train them, support them, and appreciate their hard work because they are not just the future of Company D, but the hobby as a whole. Next year, Pvt. Doramus will be taking the field with a rifle and before long, Pvt. Moran will be ready, too. Thank you to everyone who gave just a little more and worked a little harder all year long. Your work ethic and passion is what makes this company so esteemed.
Also of note, this was the last large event of the year under Col. Geho's leadership as Union Battalion commander. The Col. and his staff have long been friends and mentors of our company and it is was with heavy hearts we saw our colonel retire. During the Saturday pie social, Captain Whitehall along with the rest of Company D, presented Colonel Geho with a Sharpshooter service medal in token of our deep appreciation. After our last battle, Captain Whitehall marched us back to the Colonel's tent after battalion dismissal to give one last cheer of "Hail! Hannibal!" Company D also presented Corporal Spiekermann with his very own custom made Hainesworth wool forage cap in token of our appreciation of his leadership as corporal.
We are starting our off season now and we encourage everyone to stay in touch, ask questions, and keep an eye on our website and YouTube channel for more content and resources. Stay tuned next year as Ft. Simcoe will continue to grow and will be something we'll be discussing about making a formal Sharpshooter event. Finally, as our season wraps up, a special thanks to all you who helped out as carpool drivers to provide the greatest amount of opportunity to our soldiers. Be well, be safe, and we'll see YOU on the battlefield.