The following report is from The Fusilier May-June 2021 edition.

The 23rd contained a combination of new recruits including Gabe Everman (fifer), Kevin McClain, and Jordan Rowland. Familiar faces included GV Alex Ivanchishin, GV David LeslieHughes, RDM Joe Siegel, Eric Marqueling, Daniel and Eric Spaar. Seeing both Keith Spaar and Andrew Nedelka were unexpected surprises. The latter reenlisted and we are looking forward to seeing him on the field soon!

The Crown Forces contained two battalions. The 23rd was brigaded with the 1st New Jersey Volunteers and the (Hessian) Regiment von Hyun (Saturday only). Saturday morning both battalions rehearsed advancing by Indian files, open order, and passing through ranks. There were morning and afternoon scenarios on each day. Mr. Washington was present on the afternoon of each day, which implied a Crown Force defeat or retreat. Jay Weatherbee of the 1NJV commanded the battalion during the Saturday morning battle. The engagement went well and we drove the rebels with minimal resistance.

Brigadier McGaughey directed me to command the battalion for the remaining three scenarios. On Saturday afternoon we engaged the rebels, who launched a bayonet charge. Our battalion fixed bayonets and countercharged. The brigadier—in accordance with the site’s wishes—ordered our force to retreat and yield the field, which we did. Sunday morning we attacked and took
the field back and that afternoon we once more handed it to the rebels.

Eric Spaar did a fantastic job of providing meals, feeding our contingent, and running the 23rd firing line when I was commanding the battalion. Overall it was a fun event. Remarkably, there was not a drop of rain the entire and our new recruits were proficient and safe on the battlefield.

This was a great start to the campaign season and I hope to see you on the field of battle soon!