Battle at Broad River

Brothers,
Command Notes & AAR on Broad River Battle.

First, I would like to compliment all of you the action at Broad River. Your performance on the field was excellent. Your behavior in camp was, if a little salty, very genial & it was a welcome time of relaxation & fellowship.

Lieutenant Gardo will send an official After Action Report which I shall publish here & forward to the Valley Division. I would like to post a few comments & observations. Feel free to add your own…

Pros-
1. Lieutenants Gardo & Creely did admirable work as advanced party. The camping area was well shaded, beautiful (& probably the only area we could set up “The Condo”)

2. Both lieutenants did a very solid job commanding the battery, & either could, if need be, ably command in my or Harve’s absence.

3. The return of David Gandy to the ranks was a welcome addition to a battery who has suffered heavy losses in the past 12 months.

4. The field was perfect for artillery, the hills blocked in the sound, and the trees kept both sound & smoke close to the ground & the humidity gave us a wicked good boom. I have never seen better, & I doubt we will ever have such again.

5. The cooperation of the 2nd US Regulars on Saturday allowed us a double canister “Kill Shot” on an advancing infantry column. It looked way cool… the crowd loved it. It was only the second time in 10+ years in the hobby I have seen it, & it was a sight to see.

6. Both the Host Unit & the other units at the event were a great bunch of guys. We were treated with kindness & respect. We were well fed & well taken care of.

Cons-

1. The camping areas were not vehicle friendly.

2. Poison Ivy in the woods needs to be controlled if we camp/fight there.

3. No signs on the roads, it was very difficult to find (especially at night)

Your Obedient Servant,
Duke