2025 Serra Rally - Miami - Men of Christ - Fort Donelson - Forrests' Dec 1862 Raid - Shiloh - Corinth - Island No 10 - Columbus-Belmont - New Philadelphia - Lincoln Home - Serra International - Blues on the Chippewa - NGAUS Milwaukee - Pallium - Civil War Forum - Jon Batiste - Fall Sports - Vets Day - North Country Trail - Serra

I wasn’t sure I would even begin a blog for this year . . .

but I thought I’d give it a try . . .

received an email January 16, 2025 from Audible.com . . .

I’ve been listening to Audible.com. An app that has books – somehow – associated with Amazon (seems they’re into everything) – I began a ‘trial subscription’ in July and somehow got hooked into a regular subscription – at any rate – I’m currently on hold to subscribing to monthly book, but according to Audible - I listened to 197 hours and 42 minutes online books in 2024.

The New Evangelization and You 5 hours 20 minutes

I wanted to read or listen to this book as a result of attending the Eucharistic Congress

The War on Warriors (Behind the betrayal of the men who keep us free) –

Pete Hegseth 8 hours 10 minutes

I wanted to listen to this book before purchase, perhaps as a gift to Paul – little did I know that Trump would select him as a nominee for SECDEF

Grant – Ron Chernow 48 hours 2 minutes

A very enjoyable listen – Chernow’s take Grant may have had a binge drinking problem but was not a drunk and was certainly in charge during his battles

The Civil War Volume 1 (Fort Sumter to Perryville) – Shelby Foote 42 hours 48 minutes

The Civl War Volume 2 (Fredericksburg to Meridian) – Shelby Foote 52 hours 45 minutes

The Civil War Volume 3 (Red River to Appomattox) – Shelby Foote Includes time listening in 2025 58 hours 23 minutes

PLUS numerous others books that I’ve read in hardcover . . . . If Hegseth is confirmed as SECDEF I’ll have to listen to his book again

The trilogy by Foote was well worth the time – maybe better than James McPherson’s The Battle Cry of Freedom – certainly much longer – more stories and background = Shelby Foote is not an academic. He views himself as a novelist.

It appears that most of my traveling this year will be to conferences . . . Miami (Serra), Tennessee (CWRT), Kansas City (Serra), Milwaukee (NGAUS) – perhaps a Mammoth Challenge in the Fall. No golf trip, no cruise . . . . time and expenses

January 18, 2025

WEATHER: in the mid-20s, sunny, windy

TRAVEL: Burlington – St. Dominic’s Brookfield – Burlington

Men of Christ 2025 - Planning Meeting – actually the planning for this

event 19 years running, probably begins by the core team immediately after completion of the previous year’s session.

The Men of Christ apostolate is a group of Catholic lay men from all walks of life who have come together to make a difference in this world by helping other men to live their Catholic faith boldly.

Opening Mass said by Fr. Sweeney, Associate Pastor at St. Dominic’s, ordained 20 May 2024.

Fr. Eric Stenburg, St. Paul’s Catholic Ministry, UW – Madison. He didn’t have a topic but a number of highlights follow:

Goal is Life – Be Holy

“learn your faults” - he quoted from St. John Paul II’s last encyclical, ECCLESIA DE EUCHARISTIA, dated April 17, 2003 – specifically paragraph 38

38. Ecclesial communion, as I have said, is likewise visible, and finds expression in the series of “bonds” listed by the Council when it teaches: “They are fully incorporated into the society of the Church who, possessing the Spirit of Christ, accept her whole structure and all the means of salvation established within her, and within her visible framework are united to Christ, who governs her through the Supreme Pontiff and the Bishops, by the bonds of profession of faith, the sacraments, ecclesiastical government and communion”. . . . It is not possible to give communion to a person who is not baptized or to one who rejects the full truth of the faith regarding the Eucharistic mystery. Christ is the truth and he bears witness to the truth (cf. Jn 14:6; 18:37); the sacrament of his body and blood does not permit duplicity.

He made references to a great percentage of Catholics who go regularly to church are over 62 years old – the institutions (schools, churches, halls) may not be there in 5 years – i.e. parishes are already unifying –

We have no problem with failure – We have a huge problem with not trying – fear, laziness

The real saint who fights and loses gets up and fights again

See your work as a communion with life - I’m glad that was his inspiration – I certainly did not read that in John Paul II’s letter

Fr. Dominic Bourck

Fr. Dominic Bourck, Chaplain & Director of University Ministry, University of Mary, Bismarck, North Dakota. Fr. Bourck will be a primary speaker at the Men of Christ gathering March 29, 2025

The past school system was nothing but an “inoculation” - there was nothing dynamic – he said ‘the system taught you enough that you didn’t want to be Catholic’’

Today Is Different – Catholic Identify – Catholic Strength

Both speakers began with sharing their vocation story – but both are Campus Ministers – it is different today – Bourck seemed to ‘take a swing’ at Catholic education of the past – even to the point that people can still quote the Baltimore Catechism but can’t quote a single passage from the Catechism of the Catholic Church. I’m not sure what his point was there. However, I may agree with “We suffer from individualism . . . . when we die our individualism dies, nothing goes on” My thought: these guys see a future – not sure they care much about what happened in the past – the present and the future will be different.

Cursillo – Matt O’Connor spoke about 10 minutes on Cursillo in Milwaukee. He began by thanking all present for being leaders in their parish. He referenced TMIY (This Man Is You – no my favorite program). He described Cursillo as an ‘intense short course’. When asked about why the Cursillo movement died in the 80’s – he didn’t answer except to say that the Catholic Church in Milwaukee faced challenges in the 80’s. He left brochures. “If you really want more – try cursillo.” Cursillo is: 1) a model of faith, 2) a structure to live life by, 3) creates a spirit of fire. A 3 day short course – not a retreat. He was sincere, spoke from his heart, did not specifically ask anyone to join the movement and didn’t ask for donations.

Men of Christ – Courage Under Fire will be held at Carroll University, March 29, 2025 ‘to bring back the big conference feel back.” Prior to COVID it had be staged at the Milwaukee Theater. 2019 was the last conference downtown. The rest of the morning was spent opn planning and how to get remote parishes involved. There is only room for about 1,100 at Carroll – the prior venue could hold up to 4,000. Register now – if you want to attend at Carroll. Kevin O’Brien – spoke for about 10 minutes – a true sales guy, former professional football player (CFL) – a lot about TAP Touch A Person – you’ve got to ask – give ‘em a card in order to get SIS (Souls in Seats). O’Brien is also a featured speaker on March 29. The session ended with the Angelus.

Thursday, January 23, 2025

Weather: 18 degrees when I left Milwaukee and light snow - 30 and snow on the ground in Atlanta – 50 degrees in Miami Sunrise: 0714 MKE Sunset: 1757 MIA

Travel: Southwest Airlines MKE-MIA, Uber to Miami Marriott Dadeland

Took an Uber from the airport to the hotel. The driver asked me what Uber was going to charge me – $26-29 – he countered ‘I’ll cancel the Uber you pay me $20 via cash or Zelle . . . I only make $8 on this trip’ – I paid him $25 cash.

Miami Marriott Dadeland - could be the same room I had last year, nothing special - adequate

2025 SERRA RALLY

Missionaries of Vocations

Ambassadors for Vocations

1545-1700 Club Presidents/District Governor’s Meeting. This was actually run by Mike Downey. A round the table report by each attendee. I picked up several IDEAS and met Joe Mehringer, President of the now 2 year old Serra Club of Chicago (Mundelein). We exchanged cards and he apparently has meet with Milwaukee’s new archbishop Groh.

IDEA: Dues can be contentious -some clubs have ‘pay as you are able’

IDEA: Des Moines club has four Happy Holy Hours a year for old and new members, beer and wine and snacks on the club/donations.

IDEA: one club takes 800 8^th graders annually to the seminary/convent – a full day – Vocations: Single Life – Married Life – Religious Life – Priesthood.

IDEA: to self I still think a Hispanic club (satellite) is viable

IDEA: Communicate with the Archbishop – tell him 1) What the Club is doing – particularly on the spiritual side, masses attended, rosaries said, prayers, chaplets, etc. and 2) What are you going to do - ask for his input

IDEA: a lady from CA wanted to bring back Tom Thibodeau and a presentation on Servant Leadership

KEEP PEOPLE ENGAGED – MEMBERSHIP ORIENTATION

Wouldn’t it be nice if every parish had a vocations committee . . . .

Judy Cozzens expressed an assist in continuing “serran prayer teams"

1730-1830 Travelers Mass presided by Cardinal Thomas Collins. He did not give the homily.

Welcome Reception – this was supposed to be around the roof top pool but was held on the 3^rd floor atrium due to the cool weather. I didn’t expect a full dinner. Open bar and plenty of food – perhaps not enough places to sit – but still better than the pool deck. A pasta station (choice of red or white sauce, spaghetti or rigatoni, shrimp, peppers, mushrooms, shredded cheese) each bowl warmed individually. Similar to an omelet station. A vegetable station with an excellent ranch dressing. A Cuban pork station with an delicious sauce – fruity and sweet.

Sat at a table with two brothers of the Sacred Heart (Jonathan and a form of Ignatius?), Gino Dimatteo, Barbara Luster, and two Serrans from Winona.

Monday, January 20, 2025

Inauguration of President Donald J. Trump, 47th President of the United States

It was below freezing in Washington, DC - the Ceremony was held in the Capitol

Friday, January 24, 2025

Weather: 50 at 5 am and cloudy, forecast high of 56 Sunrise: 0707

Travel: Miami Marriott Dadeland

Marriott Dadeland – I have my room thermostat set at 74 – I don’t think the HVAC system recognizes that setting – something tells me the design temp was somewhere above 50 i.e. the HVAC system probably isn’t designed to keep the building at 72 or above when it’s 50 or below outside.

2025 SERRA RALLY

Missionaries of Vocations

Ambassadors for Vocations

OBSERVATION: the published and revised program only resembled the times that were published

0700-0800 Breakfast – another unexpected meal included with the registration

0830-0900 Welcome Remarks – Anne Roat Today January 24 is the Feast Day of St. Francis de Sales “a Serrans’ vocation is to be a friend to priests” The next Rally will be in St. Louis, at the Augustinian Institute, January 22-25, 2026.

Serrans Called to Prayer – one hour everyday for vocations

Archbishop Wenski

0900-0930 Keynote Speaker: Archbishop Thomas G. Wenski - WORLD OF HOPE

Pope Francis declared 2025 as a year of “Pilgrims of Hope”

“prayer is an expression of hope”

“marriage is between a man and a woman”

He spoke of today’s alternate religions “Moralistic Therapeutic Decay” MTD the words of a protestant – some preaching a God who is everything to everyone – and everyone Be Happy - just do it - like be happy, don’t worry

Vatican II – some ‘misapplied His teaching’ ‘misinterpreted’ - the years after the Council – improperly catechized – and that did not contribute to vocations – “the Council was not about changing the Church but about changing the World” – the church rediscovered itself as an ecumenical movement - to self: this renforced the worlds of Fr. Bourck regarding the past & catholic education - HOPE enables us to face our present – Christ is the answer to the longings of the human heart - HOPE is your anchor

HOPE is your answer

- Compliments my hope

- A growth in young people

- Growth in the Serra Club

Cardinal Collins with his 'red bible
which is meant to be read'

0930-0945 Cardinal Collins Reflection – “there are more facets to HOPE” – “the character of Hope is there for long journeys – Hope is meant for bad times – we don’t need it in heaven, we’re already there – WHOO Nip er OH – Hope always forward – he was a patron of HOPE

Hope is not Optimism – Optimism is a mirage – it is not there – ‘things are getting better’ – he brought out his red bible and again referenced a bible is to be read – LIFE CANNOT BE AN ILLUSION

FAITH is a VISION – HOPE is our engine – our anchor (St. Monica)

i.e. “there’s got to be something more . . . “ Faith – Hope Truth

· Be in touch with the Mass (Eucharist)

· Act in accordance “speak Lord your servant is listening’

· Go to confession

0945-1000 Cultural Outreach – Training Session – Jesse Gallagos

WHOO Nip er OH - when we says “St Junipero Serra, pray for us we’re speaking in two languages” - build a more integrated Catholic Church in the US – he covered some stats regarding the most common 2^nd language in cities and dioceses

IDEA: Contact Fr. Oriel – find out who the Hispanic Community leadership is – make a presentation – build – continue the momentum

1000-1015 BREAK

1015-1100 Vocations Committee – Training Session – Moira Leite unable to attend – presentation by – maybe Candice Terrill – it was a basically a repeat of the ZOOM presentation given on 13 Jan 2025.

1100-1145 Speaker: Fr. Jorge Torres – the weather kept him from getting an airplane to Miami – so there was a ZOOM presentation from Orlando – a few technical glitches – a lot of charts, statistics and trends – really don’t remember much or was able to comprehend the main message – maybe just to emphasize:

World Day of Prayer of the Consecrated Life

World Day of Prayer for Vocations

National Vocations Week

1145-1245 LUNCH

1300-1345 Speaker: Msgr Pablo Navarro-Rector – I missed his presentation – met Cindy Bell from the Serra Club of Green Bay West – also on the board of the Serra International Foundation – we talked long on how to enhance cooperation between our clubs and Milwaukee and Madison

IDEA: Coordinate with Serra Clubs in Madison and Green Bay to do some of the sames things we do with the seminarians at St. Francis de Sales

1345-1415 Communications Committee – Training Session – Don Simonieux

He indicated that a Club can set up a webpage on the portal, of course, there is a cost. This guy still does not impress me.

Mother House of the Servants of the
Pierced Hearts of Jesus and Mary

1600-1845 Buses to Visit Servants of the Pierced Hearts of Jesus and Mary, 3098
S.W.14th Street, Miami, FL 33145

Simply amazing – the sisters here all smile – most are young – this is the Mother House and most of the 80 members were here from their outlying worksites. They have a collation of over 300 relics – I’ve never felt the presence of the Holy more than in this house. The order grew from a one room garage to a home and expansion in a residential neighborhood. A wonderful courtyard, a children’s youth center and a John Paul II Hall.

This visit was so much better than anything I’ve experienced at the Rally.

Adoration Chapel
with St. John Paul II relic
to the left of the monstrance

There was a relic (the blood of St. John Paul II – still in liquid form) in the perpetual adoration chapel – I was able of put my fingers on it, and touch a Holy Card to it. Mother Foundress Adela told a story about John Paul II – on the 50^th anniversary of his ordination he wondered why his life was spared during WW II – I wish I could remember the response but we can never assume – somehow his response included a reference to Serrans - vocations

Mass Celebrated by Cardinal Thomas Collins, Bishop Daly

Today’s gospel – perfect for Serrans – Jesus ascends the mountain – a new covenant – he looks at his disciples and calls 12 of them to ascend to the top with him – when they come down, He sends them two by two – ‘off to the harvest’ – the mountain was an image of Christ

Today was also the Feast of St. Francis de Sales, I had a blessing and ability to touch the relic of St. Francis. Interesting that our seminary in Milwaukee is St. Francis d Sales and here I am on his feast day with a relic and a blessing. Was I meant to be here – part of a plan?

1915-2115 Dinner at the Hotel – open bar – plated dinner - fish

Saturday, January 25, 2025

Weather: 48 degrees at 0330; clear - high of 72 around 2 pm, but never left the building Sunrise: 0707 Sunset 1759

Travel: Miami Marriott Dadeland

Marriott Dadeland – the staff at this hotel was and is still extremely courteous – congratulations to the manager

2025 SERRA RALLY

St. Pope John Paul II
monstrance

Missionaries of Vocations

Ambassadors for Vocations

0400-0500 Adoration - an early rise, arrived about 0345, peaceful hour plus – read and
pondered Day 3 Our Identity: Beloved and Day 4 Notice: Tell, Invite reflections from The 10/10 Challenge.

0730-0800 Buffet Breakfast – another wonderful buffet breakfast of pastries, scrambled eggs, fired diced potatoes, bacon, sausage, juice, coffee

0800-0900 Holy Hour With Cardinal Collins

John Paul II added the Luminous Mysteries in 2002, Mysteries of LIGHT – all of them speak to the Light

1. The Baptism of Jesus – “this is my beloved son . . . “ ‘you are the light of the world’

2. The Wedding Feast at Cana

3. The Proclamation of the Kingdom of God – 3 years of preaching and encounter

4. The Transfiguration –‘His garments became light’ “this is my beloved son . . . “ – rise and have no fear – go down the mountain and get to work - God knows more about us than we do

5. The Institution of the Eucharist – the light shines in the darkness

0900-0915 Serra Global Rosary for Vocations

1000-1015 BREAK

1015-1100 Membership Committee – Training Session

Mother Foundress Adela Galindo

1100-1200 Speaker: Mother Adela Galindo – “it is my honor to be the smallest daughter of Our Lady” – “we pray to get in touch with the heart of the Lord” - “we need prayer to Hope – Hope will never disappoint” – “we don’t need vocations, Jesus needs vocations” – ‘the Lord of the harvest – the harvest is plentiful, the laborers few’ Matthew – ‘ he looked at the crowd and felt compassion’ – like as a father . . . his life and founding of the order is an interesting story – ‘nothing is immediate – wait – be patient’ – ‘one person who gives is worth 100’

IDEA: the homebound can offer their suffering for vocations

1200-1315 Awards Luncheon – buffet

Seminarian Panel

1315-1400 Seminarian Panel – Fr. Milton Martinez (just ordained in May) is the Director of
Vocations – 4 men on the panel – each addressed the stages of Formation: Pastoral, Spiritual, Intellectual, Human.

IDEA: Use this video presentation as a program for Serra – excellent stories

1300-1500 Confessions – here’s story: I was in line – Cardinal Collins was hearing confessions; Fr. Gomez was also in line waiting to relive him – we both walk in the room – the Cardinal is relived and Fr. Gomez says to me ‘sorry you’ve been downgraded’

1400-1500 BREAK I purchased two necklaces (Sacred Heart of Jesus in mother of pearl, white gold) from the Servants of the Pierced Hearts of Jesus and Mary, for Josie and Amanda as birthday presents.

Also purchased a number of materials from Vianney Vocations – saved shipping.

1500-1545 Program Outreach – Training Session – Gino DiMattia

Internal Programs for members

- Appreciation – we do a charter dinner, send cards, etc

- Adoration – we hold at least one adoration holy hour for vocations annually

- Mass for Deceased Serrans – we have several mass intentions through the year

- We don not sponsor a Day of Recollection or Retreat

Programs in Serra Spark - #3 Objective of Serra, Grow in Holiness

1545-1600 Treasurer’s Meeting – I wanted to attend somehow the room was never announced and I was tired – I tried to take a nap -

1630-1730 BREAK

1730-1830 Closing Mass – Cardinal Thomas Collins, Bishop Thomas Daly, Fr. Milton Gomez

1830-1900 Cocktail Reception – open bar

1900-2100 Banquet Dinner – open bar, salad, tenderloin, asparagus, potato

IDEA: another great presentation that could be a Serra program

“A Troubled America” - Bishop Thomas Daly

Began with a reference back to day 1 and Cardinal Collins image of oasis vs. mirage and HOPE is reality grounded in faith

He referenced a study that identified 10 common elements of WHY priest were leaving the ministry

-celibacy

-lack of formation

-manipulation

-ordained but they had at least one ‘no vote’

-suffered abuse or neglect before they were 18

-‘if You get me through this I’ll join the priesthood’

-not accountable to confession – never changed

-lack of priestly fraternity – i.e. loners

-failure to pray the mass and divine office daily

PRAY – “you cannot be what you are do not have”

(He referenced that there is a question of faith within the episcopacy – his fellow bishops) maybe not new – Peter and Paul had disagreements

He also referenced a problem with Catholic education in the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s – this seems to be a common them among priests recently – ‘we gave a strong doctrinal education – but there was not witness to the faith’ ACTION - he confessed that he has not read the entire bible – he advised reading the gospels and the letter of James

“We can’t keep our faith ourselves” Radiate Faith That Reaches Out To Others

The Church is involved –

PARISH – honor the Lord

EDUCATION - youth

HEALTHCARE – Catholic Hospitals sites of abortion or questionable procedures

SOCIAL SERVICES – service to the poor

He indicated that these institutions often forget the WHY

Your First Vocation Is To Your Family, then to the Church

Don’t hide the fact that you’re Catholic

COVID – he only kept the church closed for 6 weeks . . .

“He sent the disciples outs two by two – you can’t do this alone – priests if humble and grateful have a great life”

LOOK AT THE QUESTIONS JESUS ASKS WITH GRATITUDE AND GENEROSITY YOU WILL EXPERIENCE PEACE

There was a final presentation on the upcoming Serra International Conference in St. Louis – something tells me this conference will be better

ENTERTAINMENT – a female (soprano) vocalist, followed by a seminarian (former music teacher – choral) who sang accompanied by piano and another seminarian who played sax.

Sunday, January 265, 2025

Weather: 53 degrees at 0700 – High of 72 mostly cloudy, windy Sunrise: 0706 Sunset 1800

Travel: Miami Marriott Dadeland – Hilton Grand Vacations McAlpin Ocean Plaza

Check out at the Marriot Dadeland was noon – I worked on entering the items on this blog and packed – Publix literally across the street - took a Uber to Ocean Drive.

Hilton Grand Vacations McAlpin-Ocean Plaza
two buildings - I stayed at the Ocean Plaza

Hilton Grand Vacations McAlpin Ocean Plaza, 1430 Ocean Drive, Miami This is
actually 2 separate buildings with check-in located in the farthest building north. The bellman was gracious. WIFI works. Arrived at 1315. Of course, the room wasn’t ready – promised between 1400 and 1430 – actually about 1510 when I went back to the McAlpin. My luggage was in my room. WIFI works.

This place is not a room with a view – but convenient location, I’m on the top floor (4^th); a one bedroom efficiency – a better layout than the room I stayed in last year at HIVC in Kissimmee – 2 burner cooktop, refrigerator, GE Profile Convection Oven/Microwave, 2 TVs, couch, chairs – no dining room table but a 3 person countertop. The bedroom holds a queen, they did not stuff king into a room that was not made for that big of a bed. Large bathroom – shower – no tub.

Miami Beach - looking north across
Ocean Dr from the McAlpin-Ocean Plaza

This isn’t the Miami Beach of “Burn Notice” – first of all it’s January – not the middle of summer – second, the road for the most part has been closed to vehicle traffic – There is a green space between Ocean Drive and the dune, then the beach, then the ocean. There was a Marriot next door – It had a restaurant in front – Havana 1957 – apparently not part of Marriott. I was hungry – ordered a burger, fries, 2 Corona’s and what was probably plantain chips as an appetizer when I sat down.

Went back to McAlpin – checked in – unpacked – I was tired – laid down for a nap – woke up about 1910 – made something to eat, coffee – finished typing these notes and thoughts from the Rally.

Monday, January 27, 2025

Ocean Drive looking north - early morning

Weather: 69 at 0600 forecast high of 75 partly cloudy Sunrise: 0708 Sunset: 1801

Travel: Hilton Grand Vacations McAlpin Ocean Plaza – St. Francis de Sales (Ocean Dr to 6^th St then west about 5 blocks) – HGVC

Hilton Grand Vacations McAlpin Ocean Plaza, 1430 Ocean Drive, Miami

Well maybe this is the Miami Beach of ‘Burn Notice’ - on the walk to St. Francis de Sales at 15^th Street – Ocean Drive became a one-way street south.

0730 Mass at St. Francis de Sales – I walk in the front door and what do I see a sign with the words HOPE - - - again, coincidence or the did someone guide this – I mean St. Francis De Sales – the name of the seminary in Milwaukee – the relic – the feast day and what must be Bishop Wenski’s/Pope Francis’ message HOPE

Exercise: a 1.2 mile 30 minute walk to St. Francis de Sales (down to 6^th St and about 4 /5 blocks west). There is a Publix across the street so a place to get a can of beer, sunglasses and some breakfast food. A 1.2 mile walk back.

First time listening to the news today since last week . . . .

CHIEFS vs EAGLES in the Super Bowl on Feb 9

Trump has been President 7 days and ICE has arrested/deported over 2,370 criminal/illegal immigrants. News reports that there are over 680,000 criminal illegal immigrants in the US. Over 1.6 million immigrants awaiting some type of adjudication to make them legal, i.e. hear their case. That number is ridiculous. Chicago’s mayor and the Illinois governor trying to resist – keeping ‘law abiding undocumented people in our state.’ Trump says there will be a “tax deduction of up to $25,000 on tips” – keeping his campaign promise of ‘no tax on tips.’ Somehow- Biden’s 80,00O new IRS tax agents are going to be released – Trump says they were targeting people who make under $400,000 annual.

Columbia’s president ‘caved in’ to Trump – at first denying deportation from the US to Columbia of criminals on US military aircraft – then he said he’ll use Columbia’s own planes to bring them back – US economic/political power works . . .

Somehow, I think Biden will go down in history as the US’s worst president - even below Carter and Millard Fillmore (the last Whig 1850-53 or was he part of the Know-Nothings – the compromise of 1850 and succeeded to the presidency after Zachary Taylor died in 1850)

Pete Hegseth is SECDEF. I heard him refer to Fort Bragg (Liberty) and Fort Benning (Moore) today – I wonder what the plan is . . . . . pretty sure that was deliberate and not a slip of the tongue . . . .

“The American decline is over” - President Donald Trump – Congressional Institute Meeting, Doral, FL, 27 JAN 2025

I probably got an overdose of Fox News today – never left the room – I never listen to TV during the day - it got up to 74 degrees and was mostly sunny - worked on Serra and ESGR Freedom Award nominations most of the day – initially a slow pc – turned it on and off and in about an hour it got reinvigorated - Hope I can enjoy the outdoors tomorrow . . .

Tuesday, January 28, 2025

St. Francis
de Sales

Weather: 61 at 0600 – clear - forecast high of 74 Sunrise: 0705 Sunset: 1801

Travel: Hilton Grand Vacations McAlpin Ocean Plaza – St. Francis de Sales – CVS on Ocean Dr - HGVC – Art Deco Welcome Center - HGVC

Hilton Grand Vacations McAlpin Ocean Plaza, 1430 Ocean Drive, Miami

Mass at St. Francis de Sales 7:30 am – again about 25 people

Exercise: a 1.2 mile, 30 minute walk to St. Francis de Sales (down to 6^th St and about 4-5 blocks west). A 1.2 mile walk back.

Worked most of the day on ESGR Freedom Award Executive Summaries, contacts and answered e-mails.

Art Deco Welcome Center – My only excursion today - $7 admission but FREE to military and retired military. Not sure it was worth the $7 but probably a good place to get out of the sun when it’s in the 80’s and 90’s. The styles of the 1920s and 1930s remain vibrant in the Art Deco Historic District in Miami Beach home to the nation’s largest concentration of the sleek and bright architectural style. The district, which has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1979, contains some 800 designated historic buildings, though some of them represent other modern architectural styles from different eras of Miami’s history. Miami Beach is what it is because of one lady.

Wednesday, January 29, 2025

Weather: nice day

Travel: Uber Hilton Grand Vacations McAlpin Ocean Plaza – United MIA-ORD-MKE

UA 5225 LV MIA 1210 AR ORD 1444 UA 2025 LV ORD 1535 AR MKE 1625

February 15, 2025

WEATHER: in the mid-20s, cloudy

TRAVEL: Burlington – St. Francis de Sales Seminary – Paul’s House - Burlington

Men of Christ 2025 - Planning Meeting

This meeting was at the seminary and I felt compelled to attend. Although, I’m not into much planning, I am supporting MOC and at least spreading the word. Glad I attended.

0800 Mass in Christ the King Chapel – Fr. Luke Stand was the celebrant – a number of other priests and seminarians were in the procession to the sanctuary. The seminary men’s choir sang.

Breakfast in the dining room.

0915 Opening – AJ. Garcia MOC purpose is to Encourage-Inspire-Inform and most of all be with brothers

0930 Kevin Matthews via ZOOM will be a principal speaker on March 29, a former ‘Chicago shock jock’ – he turned evangelist in 2011 after an experience - “Our Lady of the Broken” – I think we’ll get the whole story on March 29. ‘Men need a relationship with Mary’ – ‘ Mary is the umbilical cord to Jesus’

IDEA: MOC announcement in bulletins March 16 – ask priests to make an announcement

IDEA: MOC has a label program for printing labels for the off-site conferences – perhaps this could be used for Serra in the future

IDEA: to self AJ read Matthew 5: 1-11 – the catch of fish – fishers of men – they followed – just a inspiration to self – it’s hard – Serra – membership – don’t give up

IDEA: Give a copy of of Kelly’s book to Millers, Sippels, Mary, Amanda, Josie

1100 Kevin O’Brian – this guy is the salesman “Our Beliefs Drive Out Actions” – “Stay focused on the main thing and the main thing is to TAP TAP TAP – there is hunger and you’re offering a gift

1130 Fr. Luke Strand (Rector) closed – in 2003 there were 12 men at St. Francis de Sales and 6 of them were internationals – toady there are 90 – a 165% increase in 12 years – then he launched into the ‘first (fund raising) campaign’ ever held by the seminary – a $72 million renovation – the original buildings (1855) had no heat other than wood furnaces in the basement – no plumbing – no electrical until 1890’s “Zeal For the Lord’s House” They’ve raised $56 million to date – still looking . . . . IDEA: could Serra pledge $100/yr for the next 5 years?

Today the seminary has men from 11 diocese’ attending – he says because of its reputation – even Bishop Thomas Daly (Spokane) has a seminarian at St. Francis. All the contents of the seminary will move this May to the Mother of Perpetual Help Center (on the grounds) in May 2025 – the plan is to reopen in December 2026.

Closed with a prayer and then a short tour of the seminary by Fr. Luke and Fr. John Baumgardner (Vice Rector).

Monday, April 21, 2025

Pope Francis died

Tuesday, April 22, 2025

Weather: 38 degrees at 0400 – 72 when I arrived in Tennessee Sunrise: 0600 Burlington, WI Sunset: 1932 Dover, TN

Travel: Burlington – The Lodge at Paris Landing State Park (a 8 hour drive) - Stewart County Visitor Center, Fort Donelson National Battlefield, Dover.

The Lodge at Paris Landing State Park – a completely new facility – still smells new – WIFI WORKS – elevators out of order – staff not at peak efficiency – bar service adequate – friendly – front desk didn’t tell me elevators were out of order or that continental breakfast is included with the room. Rooms Excellent.

6 FORT DONELSON NATIONAL BATTLEFIELD, Dover, TN

My second visit here was April 7, 2014. I’ve visited here many times as a result of spending weeks golfing at Paris Landing State Park over a period of at least 13 years. The Chicago Civil War Roundtable also visited here with Ed Bearss in 2015.

I visited the Stewart County Visitor Center – the Fort Donelson Visitor Center is in a make-shift trailer – it’s been that way since at least 2018 . . . . government funding. Bought two short pamphlets by Ed Bearss from the NPS bookstore: The Fall of Fort Henry, Dover, TN & Unconditional Surrender – The Fall of Fort Donelson.

I read The War Department Tablets of Fort Donelson National Battlefield – Field Edition by Darryl R. Smith prior to coming here. It was published in 1922. BOTTOM LINE: There were 51 original tablets – 20 were missing – 13 are still missing – and they are in need for maintenance. The text on the tablets was written by CPT H.J. Conner, Superintendent of Stones River National Battlefield. He used data provide by the US Army War College in 1930. The tablets tell the story of Fort Donelson. Now, at least, I have read them all. Curiously, they mostly tell the Confederate's story and locations.

Stewart County, TN | Feb 13 - 16, 1862

Lower Water Battery on the Cumberland River
Fort Donelson

The decisive Union victory at Fort Donelson thrust Brigadier General Ulysses S. Grant into the national spotlight and enabled Union advances up the Tennessee and Cumberland rivers.

How it ended
Union victory. The capture of Forts Henry and Donelson in Tennessee were major victories
for Ulysses S. Grant. Grant received a promotion to major general for his success and attained stature in the Western Theater, earning the nom de guerre “Unconditional Surrender Grant.”

In context
Early in the war, Union commanders realized that control of the major rivers would be the key to success in the Western Theater. After capturing Fort Henry on the Tennessee River on February 6, 1862, Grant advanced 12 miles to invest Fort Donelson on the Cumberland River. Operations against Donelson were part of an amphibious campaign launched in early 1862 to push the Confederates out of middle and western Tennessee, thereby opening a path into the Southern heartland.

The Union victory at Fort Donelson forced the Confederacy to give up southern Kentucky and much of Middle and West Tennessee. The Tennessee and Cumberland Rivers, as well as railroads in the area, became vital Federal supply lines, and Nashville became a huge supply depot for the Union army in the west.

FORCES ENGAGED

40,072

CONFDERATE UNION

16,171 24,531

ESTIMATED CASUALTIES (KIA,WIA,MIA, POW)

23,743

CONFEDERATE UNION

13,846 2,291

Prelude to Fort Donelson. This map explains the location of Fort Henry and Fort Heiman.

Fort Henry was badly sited, flooding and actually surrendered to the Navy. Fort Heiman was not completed and abandoned prior to the oncoming of Union soldiers. Some earthworks can still be seen at Fort Henry. Fort Heiman is at the end a road surrounded by some homes

This is a pic taken from the video at the park's
VC (trailer). It shows the Confederate breakout
at Fort Donelson and withdrawal
back to the fort - what if they had kept going?

The best way to understand this battlefield is to walk the trails - - - it’ll take the better part of a
day - - - and you better have a good feel for how the battle developed because the ground is now covered with trees or roads or buildings that weren’t there in 1862. There is limited visibility between points. As it was, I spent 3 ½ hours at Donelson – but my days of walking trails – I fear are past.

Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Weather: 57 degrees at 0700, mostly sunny Sunrise: 0607 Dover, TN Sunset: 1932 Counce,TN

Travel: The Lodge at Paris Landing State Park - The Lodge at Pickwick Landing 2.5 hrs+ 115+ miles via stops at Dresden - McKenzie – McLemoresville - Huntington – Clarksburg – Parker’s Crossroads – Lexington – Savannah Cherry Mansion - Adamsville

Although I visited Jackson, Carroll Station, Humboldt, Trenton, Rutherford Station, Kenton Station, and Union City on Sunday April 27, 2025 - I will include the story of FORREST'S WEST TENNESSEE RAID DECEMBER 1862 in chronological order here.

FORREST’S WEST TENNESSEE RAID

DECEMBER, 1862

The raid started at Clifton, TN on December 15, 1862 and ended on a return crossing
the Tennessee River January 1, 1863. On the way south to the Lodge at Pickwick Landing I decided to take up Forrest’s raid on his return from Moscow, KY on December 24. I’ll cover his raid north when I leave Pickwick Landing after the Civil War Roundtable Tour of Shiloh & Corinth.

Forrest's West Tennessee Raid - December 18, 1862 Battle for Lexington

Forrest's West Tennessee Raid
December 1862 Battle of Salem Cemetery

December 19, 1862 Jackson – Railroad Gateway to the Deep South (Civil War Trails Marker)

Madison County Confederate Monument: 100 E. Main St., Jackson Erected in 1888, this monument in front of the county courthouse honors Madison County men who fought for the confederacy. It lists major engagements like Shiloh, Chickamauga, and Franklin.

Battle of Salem Cemetery -December 19, 1862

December 19, 1862 Salem Cemetery Battlefield (TN Marker) 58 Cotton Grove Rd,
Jackson, TN

Forrest attacks at Salem Cemetery, drawing the attention to Jackson, as planned. Meanwhile, Colonel George Dibrell’s 8^th Tennessee Cavalry attacks the stockade at Carroll Station, burning the stockade and taking a large quantity of ammunition and other supplies. Colonel Alfred Russell’s 4^th Alabama Cavalry and Major Nicholas Cox’s Tennessee Cavalry Battalion hit the Mobile and Ohio Railroad burning bridges and cutting the telegraph, and then ride west to the Mississippi Central Railroad where they burn ties and twist rails into “Forrest neckties.”

Salem Cemetery experienced fierce fighting during Confederate Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest’s West Tennessee Raid of 1862. Alarmed by Forrest’s early success to the east, Federal troopers under COL Adolph Engelmann were stationed on both sides of Cotton Grove Rd in an attempt to slow his progress. On the morning of December 18, 1862, Forrest’s cavalry rode south toward Jackson unaware of ambush that lay ahead. As the column approached, Federal soldiers fired a volley of shots, killing or wounding both men and horse.

Forrest’s cavalry retreated to the next ridge to the north, leaving behind dismounted troopers. Using their dead horse for cover, Confederate soldiers returned fire until captured during the ensuing fight. The Federals regrouped behind the cemetery’s iron and wood fence and repelled a cavalry charge, adding to the dead an wounded on the road. Forrest then unlimbered three previously captured artillery pieces and began shelling the Federal position. Because of his cavalry’s inexperience with artillery most of the early rounds went over the heads of the Yankees and exploded in the treetops around them.

As the Confederate gunners began to find the range, Colonel Englemann, fearing that his outnumbered troops would be surrounded, ordered the withdrawal toward Jackson. Forrest had achieved his objective to pin the Federal behind their fortifications in Jackson, freeing him to continue raids against Union rail and communications lines in West Tennessee.

During the four-hour battle, Confederate losses totaled an estimated 65 KIA, WIA, MIA, while Federal losses were 2 KIA and 6 WIA.

Railroad Gateway to the Deep South (Tennessee Marker) 56 Casey Jones Ln, Jackson, TN - This marker is at the end of a road very close to the Casey Jones Train Museum - includes a replica of Engine 382 - Casey was from Jackson

Occupation at Jackson Jackson, TN

December 20, 1862 Skirmish at Carroll Station (Tennessee Marker) Ashport Rd & Cooper Anderson Rd, Jackson TN This is an internet photo. I could not locate the marker.

Another marker I could not locate.
Photo is from the internet.

December 20, 1862 Forrest’s Raid (Tennessee Marker) E Main St (Hwy 45W) Humboldt, TN

Colonel George Dibrell's 8^th Tennessee Cavalry meeting with unanticipated Union reinforcements, fails to take the Deer Fork Stockade but Colonel James Sterns 4^th Tennessee Cavalry and a squadron from Colonel Jacob Biffle's 9^th Tennessee Cavalry as well as Captain William H. Forrest's independent company, approximately 750 men in total, encounters little resistance at Humboldt. The stockade, depot, and railroad bridge are burned. Forrest attacks Trenton and captures several hundred horses and mules, thirteen wagons and ambulances, seven caissons, 200 artillery rounds, 400,000 rounds of small arms ammunition.

He had also added 160 new volunteers from Hickman and Perry counties. Forrest again left Colonel Alfred Russell’s 4^th Alabama Cavalry as his rear guard, who again captured federals with their supplies. Russell’s met up with Forrest in Trenton later that night.

December 20, 1862 (Civil War Trails Marker) Cemetery Rd 0.1 miles south of Brownsville St in Oakland Cemetery

Forrest reached Trenton at 10 PM on December 20, and began the attack forthwith with Major Nicholas N. Cox’s Tennessee Cavalry Battalion on his right. Forrest charged through town with his escort, during which two of his men were killed and three wounded, and then withdrew approximately 200 yards to what is now the Trenton Cemetery. Forrest fired his big guns toward the depot; after a brief skirmish, Capt. J.P. Strange, the Confederate Adjutant, posted the artillery and began firing again. When white flags were shown, Strange was directed to receive the surrender. Meeting with Union Col. Jacob Fry, an elderly officer asking the terms of surrender, Forrest replied, "unconditional". Realizing he had no other alternative, Col. Fry unswung his sword and handed it to Forrest, remarking sadly that it had been in his family for 40 years. General Forrest received the sword and handled it for an instant, then turned back to the colonel and said, "Take back your sword Colonel as it is a family relic; but I hope sir when next worn it will be in a better cause than that of attempting the subjugation of your countrymen." This type of charity by Forrest to his enemies was documented many times. In the course of the surrender ceremony, a fire broke out which was obviously set by the federals to prevent the Confederates from gaining the spoils of war. Forrest, along with Maj. Strange, pistols in hand, forced the federal prisoners to fight the fire or be shot. The general then turned to Col. Fry to inform him that the culprits would be punished in the "most summary manner".

Forrest with his escort and the new green volunteers managed to capture Trenton as the rest of his unit was scattered throughout the region. Forrest had no more than 275 men but captured 400 federal soldiers, including Colonels Fry and Hawkins, several field officers, 300 negroes, 1000 horses and mules, 13 wagons and ambulances, 7 caissons, 20,000 artillery rounds, 400,000 small-arms rounds, 100,000 rations of subsistence, large amounts of cavalry equipment, quartermaster stores, and soldier baggage, collectively valued at more than $500,000 (equivalent to $15,300,000 in 2023). Forrest paroled some 1,300 Union officers and enlisted men to return home, as the captured POWs were growing too numerous to manage. Some 800–900 remained prisoners and were marched under the command of Lt. Col. Nathan D. Collins to be turned over to the federals in Columbus, Kentucky

Several markers all along E Eaton St

Railroad Depot on north side of the Railroad Station

Gibson County Court House
Trenton, TN

Railroad Station - Trenton, TN

Gibson County Courthouse
Trenton, TN

Bust of Davey Crockett
Congressional Representative
on Gibson County Courthouse Square
lived in Trenton, TN

December 21, 1862 Forrest’s Raid -
Rutherford Station (Tennessee
Marker) S Poplar St (US 45W)
& W Church St, Kenton, TN

On the morning of December 21, Forrest resumed his advance toward Union City while Dibrell stayed as rear guard. Seven miles north, near Dyer, Tennessee, Forrest captured a garrison of 30 men and its supplies. He burned more bridges and rails and traveled another seven miles, where he overtook his Commissary Maj. G.V. Rambaut. There was considerable federal resistance, and a firefight broke out against 250 federals who retreated to their fortification at Kenton Station (present-day Kenton, Tennessee). Forrest surrounded the stockade to prevent escape into the Obion Bottoms; after a few cannon shots the stockade surrendered with white flags fluttering from all directions. His men began to tear up all of the rails and burn all trestles in the vicinity. That night, Col. Starnes was ordered to destroy all rails along the 15-mile stretch of the Obion Bottoms.

The next morning, scouts reported that a federal force of some 10,000 men was moving from Jackson at a rapid pace. Despite this, Forrest continued his mission to Union City, still some 20 miles further up the road. In the meantime, Lt. Col. Collins was en route to Columbus and happened upon a beleaguered federal force who surrendered by his demand. Collins captured 250 men and supplies. On December 22, Forrest encamped and made haste to parole his new prisoners acquired since leaving Trenton. On December 23, some 300 men who were turned over to Col. Collins (approximately 1,400 men now) were sent to Columbus. Also on the 23rd, federal soldiers at an outpost near Moscow, Kentucky, some 12 miles distant, fled toward Columbus upon seeing the Confederates.

Reaching the northernmost point of his mission, Forrest turned south to return some 12 miles south of Union City. A courier from Col. Starnes informed him they had destroyed the trestle works to the south of the Obion River. The entire command spent December 24 and 25 demolishing the solid heavy trestles on the North and South Forks of the Obion River, then rested for a few hours. Reports stated that Trenton was now occupied with 12,000 Union troops with the mission to destroy General Forrest's unit.

Interesting that I could find no Civil War Markers in Union City, TN. This was once home to an 1869 Unknown Confederate Dead of the Civil War monument, but now that monument and marker are gone. It was located at 919 Summer St Union City, TN

DECEMBER 24, 1862 - From Moscow KY, moving to McKenzie, Forrest’s Brigade captured the 100 – man garrison. Here they spent Christmas Eve, while working parties completed destruction of 4 miles of trestles and bridge between the forks of the Obion River. Other parties completed destruction of the railroad running to Dresden.

McKENZIE STATION 2470 Cedar Avenue, McKenzie, TN FORREST’S RAID (Tennessee Marker) Highland Drive (US 76) 0.2 miles south of Oak Manor Road & Hamilton Street, on the right when traveling north

McKENZIE'S STATION (Civil War Trails Marker) N Main St & Cedar St (TN 124), Carroll County Courthouse grounds

Dresden - Confederate Memorial
Weakley County Courthouse

December 26, 1862 – Government Property is seized at Dresden: what can’t be removed is burned

WEAKLEY COUNTY near 116 W. Main St, Dresden TN (Tennessee Marker)

Weakly County Confederate Memorial

On December 26, Forrest's men destroyed the railroad bridge over the North Fork of the Obion, the Paducah Branch. Forrest then put his whole force in motion toward Dresden, Tennessee, 26 miles away, and camped near there for the night while waiting for scouting reports. Federals were rapidly advancing toward Union City from Trenton by road and a movement was made in force up the Obion in the direction of McLemoresville and Huntington to cut off the Confederates. On December 27, Forrest moved his command toward Huntington, encamping at McKenzie's Station on the Memphis, Clarksville and Louisville Railroad. Col. Russell was sent as vanguard to seize and hold a crossing over the Obion. However, the federals had already destroyed all bridges south of the high road leading from Jackson to Paris, Tennessee; Col. Russell encountered heavy resistance but eventually forded the Obion and held his position.

Dresden - Weakley County - Divided By Conflict

Maj. Cox was sent at double-time to seize the road from Paris to Huntington. In the ensuing time, Forrest made passage across the Obion near McLemoresville using an impassable bridge that the federals had abandoned. The locals in McLemoresville called this a "double bridge". Forrest reached it at 11 PM and began cutting timbers to reinforce the bridge. It took one hour to double the bridge. To convince his men that the bridge was safe, Forrest led the way across it. The earth was frozen so the Confederates had to fill the potholes with coffee and flour to allow passage. The men had to wade waist deep in mud, water and sleet but finally effected full passage by around 6 AM on December 29. The men were then given four hours to rest.

Huntingdon – A Divided Land – The Civil War in Carroll County (Civil War Trails Marker) Court Square & Lexington St (TN-22) on Carroll County Courthouse Grounds.

By 10 AM, scouts reported that 10,000 Union soldiers were 12 miles distant in Huntingdon.
The Confederates were on the move toward Lexington over nearly impassable terrain and encamped nine miles from that location. Another battle from Forrest's command occurred during this time in Clarksburg, Tennessee, (between Huntingdon & Lexington) led by his younger brother Captain Forrest.

December 27, 1862 – Russell’s 4^th Alabama Cavalry advances to Huntington to seize and hold the crossings on the Obion River. Cox’s Tennessee Cavalry Battalion is sent to establish a roadblock on the Paris-Huntington Road.

December 28, 1862 – Forrest begins to feel pressure from the Union troops pursuing his brigade. The night is spent getting wagons and artillery across the bog-like bottom of the Obion between McKenzie and McLemoresville.

December 29, 1862 – The brigade pushes on to McLermoresville, rests briefly, and resumes the march. That night they bivouac at Flake’s Store.

FORREST’S RAID Main St (TN 77) & College St (TN 105) (Tennessee Marker)

Forrest’s Brigade, re-armed, and re-equipped with material and horse captured from the Federal storehouses which they had plundered passed here enroute to Lexington and there re-crossing the Tennessee River at Clifton.

By December 29, 1862, Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest’s West Tennessee railroad raid was ending after his cavalry disrupted Federal supply and communication lines there. The weary cavalrymen were riding toward the Tennessee River and safety behind Confederate lines in Middle Tennessee. By late that afternoon, Forrest’s brigade was bivouacked nears Flakes Store four mile southwest of here.

CLARKSBURG (Civil War Trails Marker)

December 30, 1862 – Clarksburg – Prelude, Battle of Parker’s Crossroads (Civil War Trails Marker) Clarksburg Rd (TN-22) & TN 424, Clarksburg. In spite of the news that General Jeremiah Sullivan’s command has reached Huntington, the men and teams, exhausted by the difficult river bottom crossing and the rough roads, spend the day at rest. Colonel Cyrus Dunham, at Clarksburg, learns that Forrest is camped on the road leading to Parker’s Crossroads and informs Sullivan of a plan to intercept and engage Forrest at the crossroads the following day.

December 31, 1862 – Battle of Parker’s Crossroads

Not my first visit – this battlefield is bisected by I-40 beween Nashville and Memphis. The
land in 1862 and now is mostly open now cultivated with surprisingly little development. Originally, a state run operation the 298 preserved acres is now part of the Shiloh Military Park.

As Brig. Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest’s expedition into West Tennessee neared its conclusion, the Union brigades of Colonel Cyrus L. Dunham and Colonel John W. Fuller, attempted to cut Forrest off from withdrawing across the Tennessee River. Dunham’s and Forrest’s routes on December 31, 1862, brought them into contact at Parker’s Cross Roads. Skirmishing began about 9:00 am, with Forrest taking a position along a wooded ridge northwest of Dunham at the intersection. Confederate artillery gained an early advantage. Dunham pulled his brigade back a half mile and redeployed, facing north. His Federals repelled frontal feints until attacked on both flanks and rear by Forrest’s mounted and dismounted troops. During a lull, Forrest sent Dunham a demand for an unconditional surrender. Dunham refused and was preparing for Forrest’s next onset when Fuller’s Union brigade arrived from the north and surprised the unprepared Confederates with an attack on their rear. Forrest's reported his uncharacteristic "surprise and astonishment“ at the appearance of the Federal force, but on the field, he responded to the shock with more typical boldness, ordering: "Charge ’em both ways." The Confederates reversed front, repelled Fuller, then rushed past Dunham’s demoralized force and withdrew across the Tennessee River. Both sides claimed victory, but the Confederates were able to escape what should have been a perfect trap and Forrest lived to fight another day.

Parker's Crossroads Walking Trails

Forrest Crosses the Tennessee River - January 1, 1863

Forrest Crosses the Tennessee River - Clifton, TN January 1, 1863

Prelude to Shiloh

Unable to find this marker. It is obviously well worn.
This photo is from the internet.
I was in Adamsville on Wednesday April 23. 2025.

Adamsville (Tennessee Marker) 231 E. Main St. Adamsville, TN

By early March 1862, after Union General Ulysses S. Grant moved his army to southern Tennessee, three units of Federal troops under General Lewis (Lew) Wallace were stationed at Adamsville, Stoney Lonesome, and Crump’s Landing. Wallace gained a reputation of fairness even among local Confederate supporters, as he purchased fodder and supplies for his forces. On April 1, 1862, Lieutenant Chales H. Murray, 5^th Ohio Cavalry, reported to Wallace that a skirmish near Adamsville went badly for the Federals when his small detachment suffered “a rapid and severe fire from (Confederate) double-barreled shot-guns.”

I found this marker on Wednesday April 23, 2025 - It provided background and a good understanding of how the Confederate Forces were dispersed and camped on April 5, 1862 prior to the Battle of Shiloh

Thursday, April 24, 2025

Weather: 68 and cloudy Sunrise: Dover, TN Sunset: 1933 Counce, TN

Travel:

SHILOH NATIONAL MILITARY PARK

Shiloh National Military Park

I first visited Shiloh Military Park on Tuesday April 9, 2002. There were still signs of re-enactors occupying the battlefield over the weekend. Monday the 8^th, I had spent in Memphis visiting the National Civil Rights Museum, Lorraine Hotel, Rock & Soul Hall of Fame and the Gibson Guitar Factory – pretty sure I also visited BB King’s on Beale Street. I visited again in 2010 - maybe - with Rich Borkowski and his Wilmot Hight School History Class.

This time I studied the battlefield and found that it may be best described as an 'episodic' battle, i.e. maps show a lot happening all at once. However, I don't think the battle was that coordinated - it may best understood by following the individual fights between divisions and regiments - Right - Center - Left. Early Morning, Mid- Day and Close of Day. Then of course there was Grant's counterattack on April 7, 1862. Completely unexpected by the Confederates.

I have yet to find maps that explain the battle clear enough to understand.

Cherry Mansion - Grant's
Headquarters in Savannah prior
to the start of the battle

To begin with the Confederate plan was to hit the Union Left Flank and drive them to the swamps of Owl Creek. Bad/no recon found the Johnston's army hit the center and forever trying to find to Union Left Flank by moving right.

True Grant's army was not dug in - bad intelligence - they didn't believe the Confederates would attack. They were camped here - actually created a small city - based on Division neighborhoods - atop the plateaus between deep ravines that separated them - for several days before the battle. Grant's HQ was in Savannah. He was waiting for Buell's Army of the Ohio to arrive and join him before moving south.

Built by salves along the banks of the Tennessee River, the Cherry Mansion is the oldest dwelling in Savannah. It was the home of William H. Cherry, a union supporter. Prior to the Battle of Shiloh, the mansion served as the headquarters for General U.S. Grant. On the morning the battle began, April 6, 1862, Grant heard the distant sounds of battle and told his staff: “Gentlemen, the ball is in motion.” He immediately left on a Union transport for the battlefield, which is about nine miles southwest. The house is privately owned but can be viewed from the sidewalks where the interpretive markers are located. I visited here on Wednesday April 23, 2025

THE BATTLE OF SHILOH

Hardin County, TN | Apr 6 - 7, 1862

The Battle of Shiloh, also known as the Battle of Pittsburg Landing, allowed Union troops to penetrate the Confederate interior. The carnage was unprecedented, with the human toll being the greatest of any war on the American continent up to that date.

How it ended

Union victory. The South’s defeat at Shiloh ended the Confederacy’s hopes of blocking the Union advance into Mississippi and doomed the Confederate military initiative in the West. With the loss of their commander, Gen. Albert Sidney Johnston, in battle, Confederate morale plummeted.

In context

After the Union victories at Fort Henry and Fort Donelson in February 1862, Confederate general Johnston withdrew from Kentucky and left much of the western and middle of Tennessee to the Federals. This permitted Maj. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant to push his troops toward Corinth, Mississippi, the strategic intersection of the Mobile and Ohio Railroad and the Memphis and Charleston Railroad and a vital troop and supply conduit for the South. Alerted to the Union army’s position, Johnston intercepted the Federals 22 miles northeast of Corinth at Pittsburg Landing. The encounter proved devastating—not only for its tactical failure, but for the extreme number of casualties. After Shiloh, both sides realized the magnitude of the conflict, which would be longer and bloodier than they could have imagined.

FORCES ENGAGED

110,053

CONFDERATE UNION

44,968 65,085

ESTIMATED CASUALTIES

23,743

CONFEDERATE UNION

10,669 13,047

Bjorn Skapston - near the circle of
stones representing the color guard
of the 14th WI - all were KIA
at Shiloh, they are interred
elsewhere in the cemetery with
members of the Regiment

CHICAGO CIVIL WAR ROUNDTABLE’S

74^th CIVIL WAR BATTLEFIELD TOUR

“Shiloh – Corinth” - Bjorn Skapston – Guide

The ‘environment’ of the battle – the LAND

The Shiloh plateau was suitable to camp an army – close to the river – flat lands – separated by deep ravines – where fields existed, they were cleared by people to plant crops. The Federals built a temporary city of 40,000

Tilghman Branch Ravine

Dill Branch Ravine

0830 NATIONAL CEMETERY – UPPER PITTSBURG LANDING - actually the first time I walked through the cemetery to the river and Pittburg Landing

Fraley Field

0930 FRALEY FIELD – BEGINNING OF THE BATTLE

Followed the retreat of MAJ Powell’s recon party

Seay Field vs Hardee – all back – skirmish battle

Confederates form line of battle and attack Prentiss’s camps

COL Everett Peabody KIA at Seay Field 25^th MO, 16^th WI, 12^th MI – Prentiss’ Division

2 Confederate Skirmishers under Major Hardcastle 3 Major Powell's Recon Party
This engagement of the outposts took place about 5 am and lasted till about 6:30.

The Federal Army was organized as six divisions, there were no corps. There were eighteen brigades. The confederate Army was organized into three corps and a reserve corps. The corps were divided in two divisions each. There were sixteen brigades.

SEAY FIELD & PRENTISS CAMP - Union pickets falling back from Fraley Field joined their regiment, 21^st Missouri (LTC Humphrey W. Woodyard), which hurriedly formed in Seay Field to face the attacking confederates.

Sixth Division (BG B.M. Prentiss)

1^st BDE (COL Everett Peabody) 2^nd BDE (COL Madison Miller)

21^st MO (COL Woodward) 18^th MO

25^th MO (COL Moore) 61^st IL

16^th WI 16^th IA

12^th MI (COL Quinn)

Unassigned Troops

15^th MI

14^th WI

8^th OH Btry

H 1^st IL LA

I 1^st IL LA

B 2^nd IL LA

F 2^nd IL LA

1005 PEABODY RD & EASTERN CORINTH RD

FIGHT UP EASTERN CORINTH ROAD AT SHILOH CHURCH

WATER OAKS POND & COUNTERATTACK IN JONES FIELD

DEVELOPMENT OF HORNETS NEST About 10:30 A.M.,Prentiss moved his reconstituted force (5-600 of his own men plus a like number from the 23^rd MO) into an area of high ground with protecting woods and split rail fences. Any attack directly at his position would have to move across an open field. To his right were units of W.H.L. Wallace’s division; to his left, extending to the Peach Orchard were the brigades of Lauman and MacArthur from Hurlburt’s division. To the right of Wallace, McClernand’s division re-formed, and on his right stood Sherman’s division.

W.H.L. Wallace

Division W.H.L. Wallace

COL James M. Tuttle 2^nd IA, 7^th IA, 12^th IA, 14^th IA

BG John McArthur 9^th IL, 12^th IL, 81^st OH, 13^th MO, Birges SS (14^th MO)

COL T.W. Sweeny 8^th IA, 7^th IL, 50^th IL, 52^nd IL, 57^th IL, 58^th IL

S.A. Hurlburt

Division S.A. Hurlburt

COL N.G. Williams 3^rd IA, 28^th IL, 32^nd IL, 41^st IL COL James C. Veatch 25^th IN, 14^th IL, 15^th IL, 46^th IL COL J.G. Lauman 31^st IN, 44^th IN, 17^th KY, 25^th KY

Not Brigaded 1^st & 2^nd Bn 5^th OH Cav, 13^th OH Btry, MO LA Mann’s Btry, 2^nd MI Btry

Early in the attack on Prentiss’s position, 11 – 11:30 A.M., troops from Shaver’s and Stephen’s brigades attacked one after another. Each was met by heavy rifle and artillery fire, and repulsed.

Later in the day Anderson’s brigade attacked. Battered by Ruggle’s massed batteries, the weakened Union defenders were unable to withstand the determined Confederate assaults.

Modern Shiloh Church

1040 SHILOH CHURCH

Fifth Division BG W.T. Sherman

1^st BDE COL J.A. McDowell 2^nd BDE COL David Stuart 3^rd BDE BG J. Hildebrand

(COL T.K. Smith)

6^th Iowa 55^th Illinois 53^rd Ohio

46^th Ohio 54^th Ohio 57^th Ohio

40^th Illinois 71^st Ohio 77^th Ohio

6^th Indiana Battery Stuart’s Bde was camped near the Tennessee River

to the east of Prentiss’ camps

W.T. Sherman

4^th BDE COL R.P. Buckland Not Brigaded

48^th Ohio 4^th IL Cavalry

70^th Ohio Btry B 2^nd Bn 1^st IL LA

72^nd Ohio Btry E 2^nd Bn 1^st IL LA

1110 REA FIELD

Rea Field - Mississippi Monument
COL Thornton - Sixth Mississippi

– Exposed to converging fire from the Federals defending Shiloh Church
the Confederate units here suffered huge losses on April 6. The 6^th MS had 70% casualties.

The Confederate Brigades of Anderson, Russell, Johnson, as well as, part of Cleburne’s brigade attacked the camp of the 53^rd Ohio.

1145 CROSSROADS of HAMBURG-PURDY RD & CORINTH RD – CSA not on the flank but had punched a hole in the union center as Sherman’s Division retreats and McClernand’s Division in now in the fight

First Division MG John A. McClernand

1^st BDE (COL A.M.Hare) 2^nd BDE COL CC Marsh 3^rd BDE COL Julius Raith

COL M.M. Crocker (LTC E.P Wood)
8^th Illinois 11^th Illinois 17^th Illionois

18^th Illinois 20^th Illinois 29^th Illinois

11^th Iowa 45^th Illinois 43^rd Illinois

13^th Iowa 48^th Illinois 49^th Illinois

Btry D 2^nd IL LA Carmichael’s IL Cavalry

John McClernand

1355 CROSSROADS of HAMBURG-PURDY RD & CORINTH RD – rained hard for a little while – McClernand’s battle, McDowell’s Brigade Sherman’s Division retreats to Jones Field with McClernand – they counterattack

McClernand’s Battle

COL Hare 8^th IL, 18^th IL, 11^th IA, 13^th IA Btry D 2^nd IL LA

COL Marsh 11^th IL, 20^th IL, 45, IL, 48^th IL

COL Raith 17^th IL, 29^th IL, 43^rd IL, 49^th IL Carmichael’s IL Cavalry

Sherman’s

COL McDowell 6^th IA, 46^th OH, 40^th IL, 6^th IN Btry retreats back to Jones Field joins McClernand’s Division and leads the counterattack

1430 ASSAULT ON STUART’S COMMAND

COL Stuart 55^th IL, 54^th OH, 71^st OH

57^th Illinois, the end of the line holds for 2 hours

This stop was north of the Bell Cotton Field

1520 Walk to Btry A 1^st IL LA monument

walk in the rain to BATTERY A 1^st ILLINOIS LIGHT ARTILLERY monument

Walk in the rain to 55^th ILLINOIS monument, end of the line

1610 Stop at the Right of Tuttle’s Brigade – Duncan Field - Ruggles cannons were lined up across Duncan Field – we did not visit the cannon line

W.H.L. Wallace Division COL Tuttle 2^nd IA, 7^th IA, 12^th IA, 14^th IA

Minnesota Monument

1655 Stop at Arkansas – Minnesota Monuments – HORNETS NEST - Arkansas Memorial - Minnesota Memorial - the 1^st MN Btry – not brigaded – under Prentiss’s Division was the only Minnesota unit on the field

Hornet's Nest - so called because the whizzing of bullets in the air sounded like hornets

LUNCH: Hagy’s Catfish Hotel, 1140 Hagy Ln, Shiloh, TN family style catfish, lemon, cole
slaw, hush puppies, fries, sweet tea Food was pretty good

DINNER: Lodge at Pickwick Landing buffet, salad, pork chops, carrots, scalloped potatoes, desserts Had to go to the bar for drinks – service less than stellar

Friday, April 25, 2025

Weather: 68 at 0600, forecast high of 73 – poured between 0840 and 1000 – cloudy afternoon Sunrise: 0608 Sunset: 1933 Counce, TN

Travel: Civil War Roundtable Itinerary

CHICAGO CIVIL WAR ROUNDTABLE’S

74^th CIVIL WAR BATTLEFIELD TOUR

“Shiloh – Corinth” - Bjorn Skapston - Guide

0830 Walkers Battery – William H Wallace’s HQ – trace of the Old Corinth Road – Lauman’s Brigade – after 6 minutes thunder and a heavy rain forced us back onto the bus

This was the situation at the end of Day 1 - April 5, 1862
The Union Army had been pushed back to Pittsburg Landing

Shiloh Visitor Center

0840 Shiloh National Military Park Visitor Center/Bookstore - I watched the film in the
VC – it would have been a good idea to show this Wednesday night

BUELL’S ARRIVAL

GRANT’S FINAL LINE

FINAL ASSAULTS ON THE HORNET’S NEST

the above were on the itinerary - not sure they were covered on the tour - maybe mentioned

Buell's Army of the Army Arrived - Fresh Troops to assist in the attack on Monday April 6, 1862
The attack was aided also by Lew Wallace's Fresh Division on the Union right

DAY 2 of the BATTLE – Monday April 7, 1862

FEDERAL ASSAULTS BY WALLACE, BUELL, SHERMAN/MCLERNAND

NOTE: THE YELLOW MARKERS INDICATE

ARMY OF THE OHIO DAY 2 of the BATTLE April 7, 1862

1000 did not get out of the bus - Nelson’s Attack 7 Apr - Dill Branch Ravine on left of Corinth Road – Cloud Field – Hurlburt’s HQ – Dill Branch Ravine east of the Corinth Road – Nelson’s Division came up out of the Dill Branch Ravine, stopped, waited for the rest of the line to form to the right before moving forward – the move forward on 7 April was very slow and deliberate – Grant’s ATTACK PLAN – ‘attack and regain the camps’ – Crittenden’s Division came up the right – past Wicker Field

1005 stop at BLOODY POND

Skapstan told no stories about 'bloody pond'

walked to 7 April Hazen attack across the Field

walked to 7 April Peach Orchard/Bell’s Cotton Field

The Confederate Defense was along the Hamburg-Purdy Road

2 TX attacked from the Hamburg-Purdy Road across the Bell Cotton Field and was destroyed

There was fighting here on both days - Bjorn seemed interested in explaining what occured on the second day

Putnam Stump

1105 stop at Alabama/Minnesota Monument (we were here yesterday) However, today we walked along
the Hamburg-Purdy Road to the 14^th WI and the PVT Putnam stump – a good story – between the 14^th WI and the Bde Cdr they were attached to

Earle's Grill

Davis Wheatfield

1130 Davis Wheatfield on the Hamburg-Purdy Road

1200 Earles Grill - food was good - the atmosphere - well . . . . . hillbilly may be a good word

1405 Park Entrance – Lew Wallace’s Division 7 April

6 April story of ‘artillery duel’ Bouton’s IL Battery the right of the Federal line across the Tilghman Branch

Skapston did not touch the controversy about Lew Wallace - however he did cover the role that his division played in Day 2 of the Battle of Shiloh

Jones Field

1450 Jones Field (map p 23)

The rectangular signs indicate remnants of Sherman and McClernand’s Divisions 6 April

The oval signs represent the attack on 7 April

Jones Field - Grant Hammers the Confederates Monday April 7, 1862
The attack was slow and deliberate - each commander waited until support on his right and left was present - then all pushed forward

This is the picnic area - the marker in the distance
indicates the end of the Confederate line on
April 6. The forward blue tablet is Smith's
Brigade of Wallace's Division. The brigade of
Thayer and Whittlesey extended yo Owl Creek.
behind you.
BOTTOM LINE: CSA was outflanked

1525 Picnic Area – this is the right of Wallace’s Division to Owl Creek

Story of the fight here as Terry’s Texas Ranger’s (cavalry) came out of the ravine and discovered Wallace’s Division. I don't believe I had ever been here before it was worth the time.

On April 6 the Left of the Confederate Line was on the Corinth Road

Water Oaks Pond

1610 Water Oaks Pond – the ‘Crossroads’ - Hamburg-Purdy Road & Corinth Road – story of COL Willich - Illinois Monuments - PGT Beauregard retreats back to Shiloh Church and Corinth. This area was occupied by Confederates - more trees in 1862

The Confederates Last Stand - against overwhelming odds

1720 Shiloh Cemetery – last Confederate counterattack

Probable site of Fallen Timbers

Fallen Timbers (Tennessee Marker) 1072 Joe Dillon Rd, Michie, TN

I actually attempted to locate this non-existent marker on Wednesday . . . . . although some land was purchased by the Civil War Trust, the marker has been removed

On April 8, 1862, General William T. Sherman led a reconnaissance force from the Shiloh battlefield to see if the Confederate army has actually withdrawn. Here, six miles southwest of Pittsburg Landing, he described the ground before you from right to left, a “ a clear field, through which the road passed,” then immediately beyond “some 200 yards of fallen timber,” followed by “an extensive camp” occupied by Confederate Colonel Nathan Bedford Forrest’s cavalry. Sherman ordered two companies of skirmishers forward. The last action of Shiloh.

LUNCH Earl’s Grill – 3425 US 64, Crumps, TN definitely ‘southern’ – good food – facilities questionable -but original – really original – I had a very good hamburger with very good fries, some had poor boy shrimp sandwiches

DINNER Lodge at Pickwick Landing – salad, green beans, carrots, dressing, turkey, beef, dessert

Saturday, April 26, 2025

Weather: 67 degrees at 0600, forecast high of 77, partly sunny

Sunrise: 0606 Sunset: 1934 Counce, TN

Travel: Chicago Civil War Roundtable Itinerary

CHICAGO CIVIL WAR ROUNDTABLE’S

74^th CIVIL WAR BATTLEFIELD TOUR

“Shiloh – Corinth” - Bjorn Skapston - Guide

Strategic Importance of Corinth

In 1854, the citizens of Tishomingo County, MS, invited both the Mobile & Ohio and the Memphis & Charleston rail companies to build track through their jurisdiction. The companies quickly accepted the offer and within a year the surveys were complete. The proposed routes for the new lines crossed at a right angle on a section of property owned by William Lasley. Lasley sold the land and a town quickly grew up around the pending railroad intersection. Originally, the town was pragmatically called Cross City, but the local newspaper editor decided it did not fit the growing community. The name was changed to Corinth with the stipulation that the citizens could change it back in a year should they not like it. The name stuck.

Corinth flourished throughout the remainder of the1850s until the election of Abraham Lincoln, Mississippi's secession and the beginning of the Civil War. Many Tishomingo County men served in the Confederacy and as early as 1861 Corinth served as an assembly point for Confederate soldiers traveling by rail to various points in Florida, Alabama, Kentucky and Virginia. In spring 1862, Corinth became the focal point in the Civil War's Western Theatre, as both northern and southern leaders recognized the necessity of holding the city because of its valuable rail crossings. Corinth was also in proximity to ports on the Tennessee River, including Hamburg, Eastport and Pittsburg Landing. Whoever controlled Corinth held an important logistical key to the entire lower Mississippi Valley.

The fall of Fort Henry and Fort Donelson in Tennessee, in February 1862 initiated a series of events that led to Union and Confederate advances on Corinth. The Confederates, under the leadership of General Albert Sidney Johnston, saw their trans-Appalachian defense line broken with the capture of these forts by General Ulysses S. Grant. Subsequently, Corinth became the new anchor for a Confederate defense of the lower South.

SIEGE OF CORINTH April 29-May 30, 1862

I had not visited this site in the past.
The Federal under Halleck advanced and
with each move forward built earthworks.
This site has some earthworks remains.
When the Federals finally attacked - they
found empty tranches. The Confederates
had retreated.

In early April 1862, federal troops led by Grant camped at Pittsburg Landing, TN, 22 miles northeast of Corinth. The Confederate Army made a surprise attack upon the federal encampment, and although they had an initial measure of success, on the second day Grant received reinforcements and the Confederates fell back toward Corinth.

While the Confederates were caring for their sick and wounded in Corinth, the Union army began a march on the city. Aware that federal troops were closing in, Confederate commander General P.T. Beauregard made plans to abandon the city. The evacuation was carried out in utmost secrecy and on May 30, Union troops cautiously marched into an empty city. Corinth, once again, became the focal point of the war. On October 4, Union and Confederate forces took part in one of the bloodiest battles in Mississippi. The Battle of Corinth was the last major Confederate offensive in North Mississippi and its failure opened the way to Vicksburg and Union control of the Mississippi River.

Corinth Interpretive Center (NPS)
Research Library

CORINTH RAILROAD CROSSROADS 221 N. Fillmore St, Corinth, MS I did not get off the bus - been here before - actually tired of listening to Bjorn . . . . . The Crossroads Museum has found a home in the newly renovated 1918 Corinth Depot. This depot sits adjacent to one
of the most important patches of land in the Western Theatre of the Civil War - the Corinth Railroad Crossroads. Here, the Memphis & Charleston and Mobile & Ohio Railroads crossed, making 1862 Corinth an important location for troop movement, supply and communication lines. The Battle of Shiloh was fought as an offensive measure to keep the Federal Army from controlling the railroad. However, after the Siege of Corinth, the Federals did just gain control. The subsequent Battle of Corinth was fought as the Confederate's last effort to retake the crossings from the Federals. The fall of Corinth's railroad crossing was the beginning of the end of the War in the West. Also located on the museum property is the site of the Tishomingo Hotel, which served as a hospital during the war.

CORINTH INTERPRETIVE CENTER 501 W. Linden, St, Corinth, MS Opened in 2004, this museum explains the key role of Corinth in the Civil War's western theater, featuring interactive exhibits. A excellent site - better interpretation of Shiloh than the Shiloh VC.

THE BATTLE OF CORINTH - October 3-4, 1862

Battle of Corinth October 3-4, 1862

From October 3 to 4, 1862, a Confederate army under the command of Gen. Earl Van
Dorn attacked the vital city of Corinth, Mississippi. During the two-day battle, Van Dorn’s army gained initial success but was ultimately defeated due to a stiff Federal defense led by William S. Rosecrans. Van Dorn & Price were trying to get to Kentucky to assist Bragg in his invasion of Kentucky. Fall of 1862 saw an Confederate Attack on all fronts: Antietam Sep 17, Perryville Oct 6, Corinth October 3-4.

How It Ended
Union Victory. After opening up a second attack along the entrenched Federal lines, Van Dorn’s army was met with a stout Federal defense. With his men unable to break through the Federal defenses, Van Dorn decided to retreat from the field.

In Context
In the late summer of 1862, Confederate armies were on the march everywhere in the western theater. The main thrust was General Braxton Bragg and his Army of Mississippi, who were preparing to invade Kentucky, where he hoped to capture the state and force a turnaround in the Union gains earlier that year. To accomplish this, Bragg had to separate the two major Union armies in the area, the Army of the Ohio under General Don Carlos Buell, based in northern Alabama, and the Army of the Tennessee under General Ulysses S. Grant, based in the Memphis area. Bragg tasked both General Sterling Price and General Earl Van Dorn to keep Grant in lower Tennessee to combine their two armies and attack the vital southern town of Corinth, Mississippi.

BATTLE OF CORINTH SITES

Battery Robinnette - it was a union victory - not much for the south to preserve in memory except some earthworks scattered throughout the area that were not plowed under

Basically a four room house. We had dinner
on the lawn to the right of the house.

VERANDAH-CURLEE HOUSE Built in 1857 by one of Corinth's founders, the home is a
significant example of Greek Revival architecture. The house was used in the Civil War as headquarters for Gens. Braxton Bragg, H.W. Halleck, and John B. Hood. The restored home/museum contains a collections of Boehme edition Audubon prints, eighteenth- and nineteenth-century antiques, paintings, and exhibit of replicas of Civil War soldiers' furnishings made by Corinth's C and D Jarnigan Company.

LUNCH Pizza Grocery, 800 Cruise St, Corinth, MS good pizza also catered the dinner Italian

DINNER Verandah Curlee House, Corinth, MS

Chicago Civil War Roundtable Tour Group in front of Verandah-Curlee House, Corinth MS
38 pictured here incl guide- at least 3 left Saturday morning - about 25 on Sunday morning

Sunday, April 27, 2025

Weather: Sunrise: 0605 Counce, TN Sunset: 0740 Union City, TN

Travel: The Lodge at Pickwick Landing back to Corinth visited Battery F (part of the Union defenses) and the Contraband Camp – Adamsville – Selmer – Purdy – Jackson - Carroll Station - Jackson – Humboldt – Trenton – Rutherford Station – Union City -

CHICAGO CIVIL WAR ROUNDTABLE’S

74^th CIVIL WAR BATTLEFIELD TOUR

Battery F - 3 OH Btry 3 guns 1 MN Btry 2 guns
and McArthur's Bde 21 MO-16 WI-50 IL-7 IL- 57 IL
-17 WI vs Lovell's Division & Moore's Bde

“Shiloh – Corinth” - Bjorn Skapston - Guide

We made two site visits - Battery F and the White House - October 3, 1862 and the Contraband Camp. I had not previously visited Battery F. It was part of the outer defenses of Corinth. An old well worn fort - actually a battery emplacement in what is now a wooded area - it looks like a gun emplacement. We did not visit the National Cemetery.

Corinth Contraband Camp
Many African-Americans who fled Southern plantations and farms seeking freedom and protection, found the Union-occupied Corinth to be a secure location. Union General Granville Dodge began to enlist these escaped slaves as teamsters, cooks and laborers. He actively recruited male refugees, armed them and placed them in charge of security at the newly organized camp in Corinth. Dodge's administrative efforts led to the formation of the 1st Alabama Regiment of African Descent, consisting of approximately 1,000 men. Today a portion of this camp has been set aside to commemorate the events which changed the lives of so many people. Bronze figures surround the trail through the camp, depicting the lives of these people considered to be "contraband" of war.

Did not locate this marker - photo from internet

Fielding Hurst & Purdy – Behaving Badly (Civil War Trails Marker) South of Junction: Old Purdy Cemetery Lane & Purdy-Beauty Hill Road, Purdy, TN

Henderson At War (Civil War Trails Marker) On Front St, south of W Main St (TN Rt 365), Henderson, TN Unable to locate this maker

FORREST’S WEST TENNESSEE RAID

DECEMBER, 1862 already described above

The map is here just as a reminder that I visited the sites on Forrest's route north on Sunday April 27, 2025

Monday, April 28, 2025

Weather: 52 and clear at 5 am; forecast high of 82 in Springfield - reached 87

Sunrise: 0605 Union City, TN Sunset: 0750 Springfield, IL

Travel: Holiday Inn Express, Union City, TN – Island No. 10 - Columbus KY-Belmont MO – New Philadelphia, Barry, IL – Holiday Inn Express, Springfield, IL

Railroad Wrecked (Kentucky Marker ) Jordan, TN

Civil War Raid (Kentucky Marker) SE of Hickman at State Line, Jct of Ky 116 and 125 I was unable to locate these markers supposedly at the Kentucky/Tennessee State Line.

Island N0. 10 (Tennessee Marker) 2515 St. Rt 22, Tiptonville, TN

Map

With the surrender of Forts Henry and Donelson, Tennessee, and the evacuation of
Columbus, Kentucky, Gen. P.G.T. Beauregard, commander of the Confederate Army of the Mississippi, chose Island No. 10, about 60 river miles below Columbus, to be the strong point for defending the Mississippi River. Nearby was New Madrid, one of the weak points. Brig. Gen. John Pope, commander of the Union Army of the Mississippi, set out from Commerce, Missouri, to attack New Madrid, on February 28. The force marched overland through swamps, lugging supplies and artillery, reached the New Madrid outskirts on March 3, and laid siege to the city. Brig. Gen. John P. McCown, the garrison commander, defended both New Madrid and Island No. 10 from the fortifications. He launched a sortie, under Brig. Gen. M. Jeff Thompson, Missouri State Guard, against the besiegers and brought up heavy artillery to bombard them. On the 13th, the Confederates bombarded the Yankees to no avail. Since it did not appear possible to defend New Madrid, the Confederate gunboats and troops evacuated to Island No. 10 and Tiptonville. On the 14th, Pope’s army discovered that New Madrid was deserted and moved in to occupy it. A U.S. Navy flotilla, under the command of Flag-Officer Andrew H. Foote, arrived March 15 upstream from Island No. 10. The ironclad Carondelet on the night of April 4 passed the Island No. 10 batteries and anchored off New Madrid. Pittsburgh followed on the night of April 6. The ironclads helped to overawe the Confederate batteries and guns, enabling Pope’s men to cross the river and block the Confederate escape route. Brig. Gen. William W. Mackall, who replaced McCown, surrendered Island No. 10 on April 8. The Mississippi was now open down to Fort Pillow, Tennessee.

This is one of those places you really have to want to go to - else - why else bother - and then there is not much to see - only a few markers - and I was very, very close to the Mississippi River but never saw it except from the road along the floodplain. There are just a few markers here. Not much else.

Island No. 10 - April 8, 1862

COLUMBUS-BELMONT

Belmont, MO | Nov 7, 1861

This was not a planned stop - I decided after Island No. 10 to at least look for
Columbus-Belmont. I'm glad I did. A wonderful Kentucky State Park on the Mississippi. I spent over an hour here. There are over a dozen interpretive markers - I'll let the pictures tell the story. Can't print them all, but all are worth reading.

While it ended inconclusively, the Battle of Belmont was the first test as a battlefield commander of Gen. Ulysses S. Grant, future General-in-Chief of the Union Army.

Map from in the park

How It Ended
Inconclusive. While the battle ended inconclusively, both sides claimed victory. Confederate forces thought they won at Belmont since they forced the Union troops to retreat to Paducah, Kentucky. Union forces believed it was their victory since the skirmish resulted in heavy Confederate losses and, according to Grant’s post-war memoirs, the Confederate forces “gave up all idea of detaching troops from Columbus” after the engagement.

In Context

On May 20, 1861, a month after the Civil War began, Kentucky passed its declarations of neutrality. However, this neutrality was tenuous as tensions rose between the pro-Confederate Governor Beriah Magoffin and the majority pro-Union legislature. After a majority of pro-Union legislatures were elected to the Kentucky Congress in August 1861, Union Navy Lt. William "Bull" Nelson established Camp Dick Robinson, a Union recruiting camp, in Garrard County, Kentucky. In response to the establishment of this recruiting camp, Major General Leonidas Polk ordered Brigadier General Gideon Johnson Pillow to occupy Columbus, Kentucky. Learning that Confederate forces had now occupied part of Kentucky, Brigadier General Ulysses S. Grant left Cairo, Illinois, and set up camp in Paducah, Kentucky. Kentucky’s neutrality was officially broken.

New Madrid Earthquake (Kentucky Marker) KY-94 never tried to locate this marker - I did locate some markers about the 'New Madrid Fault' in Columbus-Belmont State Park

New Madrid Earthquake

New Philadelphia NHS
nothing but a kiosk under cover

423 NEW PHILADELPHIA National Historic Site, 29766 306 Lane, Barry IL

Established in 2022, New Philadelphia National Historic Site preserves the townsite of the first known town planned and legally registered by an African American before the Civil War. Located in western Illinois, New Philadelphia was founded in 1836 by Frank McWorter, a formerly enslaved man from Kentucky who bought the freedom of himself and 15 family members. The rural community flourished at first, but later declined and dissolved in 1885.

From a distance, New Philadelphia looked like a typical Illinois pioneer town of the mid-1800s. Villagers filled baskets with a bounty of apples, corn, and wheat. Farmers hitched mules and oxen to carts filled with vegetables, fruit, and grain to sell at markets. The hammer of a blacksmith rang as it shaped hot metal into shoes for mules and horses and other household necessities. Smoke from cooking fires and fireplaces swirled from the dwellings that dotted small plots of land.

.

New Philadelphia - layout of the town - nothing but fields and a few houses today

Free Frank and Mary Free Lucy McWorter

But New Philadelphia was not a typical pioneer town. As travelers got closer, they would find a small but bustling community where Black and White villagers lived and worked side by side. For formerly enslaved Free Frank McWorter, the town meant new beginnings and an opportunity to free family enslaved in Kentucky. New Philadelphia, which he founded in 1836, is the first US town platted and registered by an African American

Holiday Day Inn Express, 810 Bream Blvd, Union City, TN a most friendly Holiday Inn Express - great staff - it was like staying in their home 'bed & breakfast' - very gracious hosts

Tuesday, April 29, 2025

Weather: 70 degrees at 6 am, cloudy Sunrise: 0601 Springfield, IL Sunset: 1858 Burlington, WI

Travel: Springfield, IL – Lincoln Home NHS – Springfield Race Riot – Burlington, WI

Original Plan was to also go to Pullman NHS and Emmet Till – Maimi Till-Mobley NMon but the VC is closed on Tuesday

Holiday Inn Express Springfield, IL - WIFI extremely slow in the morning

2 LINCOLN HOME National Historic Site,

My first visit here was April 7, 2014, I visited for a second time on July 1, 2015.

The Lincoln Home has been completely restored to its 1860 appearance and reveals much about Lincoln as husband, father, neighbor and politician. Tours of this national treasure are conducted by National Park Service Rangers. Free tickets are required for house tours and may be obtained at the Lincoln Home Visitors Center – which also houses a scaled model of 1860 Springfield. A variety of historic exhibits are located throughout the four-block neighborhood surrounding the Lincoln Home and can be viewed on a self-guided basis.

The Lincoln Home was the first and only home Abraham Lincoln owned and still stands today, with much of the original structure, walls, and foundations remaining. The Lincoln Home in itself in an artifact, as well as a place of stories and memories that tell the stories of Abraham Lincoln and his family. It's growth and expansion mirrors the growth of the Lincoln family from a young couple with a baby to a presidential family bound for the White House, as well as Lincoln's growth from a young lawyer of humble origin to the highest position in the United States.

424 SPRINGFIELD 1908 RACE RIOT, National Monument, Springfield, IL

Illinois Militia - burned house

In August 1908, a large White mob attacked the Black community in Springfield, Illinois.
Rioters destroyed homes and businesses and lynched two men. The event led to the founding of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). Today, archeological evidence gives a rare glimpse into a community devastated by the race riots of the early 20th century. Located in central Springfield, Illinois. No facilities or services are available. There is a walking tour. . . . .

On the evening of August 14, 1908, after being accused of unrelated sexual assault and murder crimes, two black men were sitting in jail. Tension was rising, as a large mob of about 5,000 white people were gathering outside, trying to take matters into their own hands. They were demanding the release of both George Richardson and Joe James. George, who was accused of raping a white woman and Joe, who was accused of murdering a white man. As the police were sensing danger, the county sheriff, with help from Harry Loper, a white business owner, secretly removed the two prisoners through the back door and put them on a train that transported them to another jail in Bloomington, IL. Once the mob learned of this move, they erupted in mass racial violence.

Spreading out, the mob headed towards the black neighborhoods. Looting and damaging black owned business, destroying their homes, and eventually lynching two important members of the black community, Scott Burton and William Donegan. Springfield endured racial violence for days, until Illinois Governor, Charles Deneen called the Illinois National Guard to bring the riots under control. The nation was shocked by the racial violence that occurred and the irony of it happening in the hometown of Abraham Lincoln, if it could happen in Springfield, it could happen anywhere, activists believed.

As a result, many died including both black and white residents. Dozens of black owned homes and business were burned to the ground, causing property damage of over $150,000, a large cost in 1908. These events caused thousands of the black residents to pack up their families and move out of Springfield, some to never return.

Of the two accused black men, who were the main focus of the racial violence, Joe James was eventually tried, convicted and hanged for the murder of Clergy Ballard. George Richardson was set free after his accuser, Mabel Hallam recanted her story.

Six months later, heavily influenced by the Springfield 1908 Race Riot and it being the final tipping point, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) was created. This happened on February 12, 1909, which was the centennial anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birthday. In 1910, the NAACP established its national office in New York City and has played a major role in history ever since. The vision of the NAACP is to ensure a society in which all individuals have equal rights without discrimination based on race.

DID NOT VISIT PULLMAN OR EMMITT TILL NATIONAL MONUMENTS - CLOSED ON TUESDAY

327 or 328 Pullman National Monument, 610 E. 11^th Street, Chicago, IL

My first visit here was April 13, 2017.

Emmitt Till & Mamie Till Mobley

425 EMMET TILL & MAMIE TILL-MOBLEY, National Monument, IL

In 1955, 14-year-old Emmett Till traveled to Money, Mississippi, to visit relatives. He was kidnapped, tortured, and murdered after reportedly whistling at a white woman. His mother, Mamie Till-Mobley, insisted on an open-casket funeral near their hometown of Chicago. Her brave decision let the world see the racist violence inflicted upon her son and set the Civil Rights Movement into motion.

Illinois Unit

Roberts Temple Church of God in Christ in Chicago was the location of Emmett Till’s funeral in September 1955. It is an active church. Public access is limited to the exterior of the building. Please respect the private property of the church. Visitor information is located at Pullman National Historical Park, 11 miles south. Learn more about the historical significance of Roberts Temple Church of God in Christ in the history and culture section.

Mamie Till-Mobley (née Carthan) was born in Webb, Tallahatchie County, Mississippi. At the age of two, her family relocated to the Chicago Area, eventually settling in Argo-Summit. Their move was part of the Great Migration, an exodus ignited by violence and widespread economic, social, and political disparities that African Americans were experiencing in the South. After graduating from high school, she married Louis Till. Their only child, Emmett, was born in 1941. Known as a fun-loving jokester, Emmett spent his childhood in Argo-Summit, then Chicago’s South Side. Though polio left him with a stutter, his illness did not diminish his enthusiasm for life.

Everything changed in 1955, the summer before Emmett was to enter 8th grade. That year, Emmett begged to go south to spend part of his vacation with family in Mississippi.

“I emphasized over and over again to him that it was not the same as Argo or Chicago and he had to be extra careful to avoid getting in trouble with white people.” —Mamie Till-Mobley, Chicago Defender, 1956

Emmett arrived by train to Mississippi on Sunday, August 21, and went to stay at the home of his great uncle Moses (Mose) Wright outside of Money.

A few days into his visit, Emmett and his cousins drove to Bryant’s Grocery and Meat Market to buy snacks after a day spent picking cotton. Emmett bought candy from Carolyn Bryant, the young White woman working behind the counter, who owned the local store with her husband.

Eyewitnesses with Emmett said he whistled at Mrs. Bryant, and the boys quickly left. The subsequent, vicious response to this perceived breach of racial customs shook the country and sparked a movement for social justice.

When Carolyn’s husband Roy Bryant heard of Emmett’s apparent interaction with his wife, he and his half-brother J.W. Milam sought to punish him. In the dark of night on August 28, the two men drove to Wright’s home. They demanded Emmett at gunpoint and he was reluctantly turned over to the men. After taking Emmett, the two men beat and shot him, before throwing his body in the Tallahatchie River. Three days later, Emmett’s mutilated body was found floating in the river and retrieved near Grabell Landing in Glendora, a cotton gin fan tied around his neck with barbed wire.

Earlier, Wright reported Emmett’s abduction to authorities, so Bryant and Milam had already been arrested for the kidnapping (to which they admitted). The discovery of the body meant the two men would now be charged with murder.

After learning of the horrific murder of her only child, Mrs. Till-Mobley demanded Emmett’s body be returned to Chicago. Her next request turned private grief into the grief of the nation. Knowing the powerful effect it would have, his mother insisted on an open-casket funeral for Emmett. All eyes turned to Roberts Temple Church of God in Christ for the viewing and funeral in September. Confronted with the image of Emmett’s battered body, the nation could no longer ignore the deadly impacts of hatred and racism. (There is an exhibit of Emmett Till's funeral in the National Museum of African-American History and Culture, in Washington, DC.)

Thousands of mourners visited the church, flooding the surrounding Chicago streets. Local and national news outlets covered the event, including television, enabling the tragedy to reach a worldwide audience. Jet, a popular Chicago-based African American magazine, published graphic images of Emmett’s brutalized body. Heartbreak, disbelief, and rage galvanized observers to demand change. However, justice was still far from reach.

Tallahatchie County Court house

Two weeks after the funeral events, eyes were back on Mississippi. The murder trial for Roy Bryant and J.W. Milam took place at the Tallahatchie County Courthouse in Sumner. Journalists, photographers, civil rights organizers, politicians, and curious spectators from all over the country descended on the segregated courtroom, where Southern race relations were on full display.

An all-White, all-male jury was selected. Two local Black men, Moses Wright and Willie Reed, offered groundbreaking testimony by taking the stand against White defendants. Mrs. Till-Mobley also testified. Despite what appeared to be overwhelming evidence of the defendants’ guilt, the jury returned a not guilty decision after one hour of deliberation. The verdict caused international outrage. Bryant and Milam later openly confessed their guilt for a magazine story, but double jeopardy prevented them from being retried.

However, from tragic loss came resistance. Mrs. Till-Mobley and other family members continued to seek justice and fight for equality. Many activists, including Rosa Parks, later identified the Emmett Till injustice as a catalyst for their involvement in the civil rights movement. Though justice for Emmett’s murder has never been realized, the legacies of Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley remain a source of inspiration. Congress passed a bill in 2022 making lynching a federal hate crime. The landmark legislation bears his name: The Emmett Till Antilynching Act.

Thursday, May 1, 2025

Election of Pope Leo XIV

Another Angel in Heaven

Sue Bauer
April 13, 1954
May 10, 2025

Wednesday, June 25, 2025

Weather: Sunrise: 0516 Burlington, WI 73 degrees Sunset: 2249 Kansas City, MO high of 93

Travel: Southwest MKE-MCI LV 1425 AR 1555

Kansas City Marriott Downtown – a typical Marriott, huge room, sixth floor

Dinner at Lydia’s an upscale Italian restaurant. I queried a a guy at the registration table about a nearby place to eat – he was wearing a shirt saying Perth, Australia, He wasn’t from Kansas City, actually Ohio, and started looking at a brochure – one thing led to another – i.e. pleasant conversation – and he invited me to join him and two other guys for Italian - about a mile away - downhill near Union Station and so began a good evening with Fr. David, Wes, and Dick. David was the guy with the Australia shirt – a talker – did not drink alcohol and avoided peanuts and fish - we took the ‘free’ trolley to Main Street and walked about a block.

Our arrival at Lydia's coincided with the arrival of John Liston and a number of past Serra International Presidents. These guys from Ohio knew Mike Bragg, a past SI President from their Club. Greg Schweitz was also there – I met him earlier. Excellent fare: a half order of manicotti & fried eggplant, vegetables, a glass of merlot – more than enough – for dessert I had coffee and sambuca.. Good conversation. We were leaving about the same time as the SI group that was ‘upstairs’ in a private room – they invited us to join them on a small private bus back to the hotel – and then the hospitality room. Serrans apparently only drink wine and liquor – there was no beer.

Thursday, June 26, 2025

Weather: Sunrise: 0553 and 73 degrees High of 90 Sunset: 2248 Kansas City, MO – evening storms and rain

Travel: Kansas City, MO

Kansas City Marriott Downtown – truly International – met a gentleman from Australia and two men from Taiwan

SERRA INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION

"Chosen to Serve"

0830 Board buses to WWI Museum

0845 Leave for WWI Museum

0900 – 1300 World War I Museum Tour - I hadn’t visited this museum in the past. The tour

was offered by Serra so I decided to make the visit. The National WWI Museum is the only American Museum solely dedicated to preserving objects, history and personal experiences of a war whose impact still echoes in the world today.

Appropriately - the WWI Museum had a
special exhibit on Chaplains in WWI

Recruiting Poster
Uncle Sam First Appeared in WWI

1145 Box Lunch in Auditorium Lobby – Presentation by Scott Carter, Coordinator, Father Kapaun Guild, Catholic Diocese of Wichita, KS

Fr. Emil Kapaun pronounced ‘Ka pawn’ or K pon (April 20, 1916 – May 23, 1951) was a Catholic priest-martyr and United State Army Chaplain/Captain who served as a during World War II and the Korean War. Kapaun was a chaplain in the Burma Theater of World War II, then served again as a chaplain with the U.S. Army in Korea, where he was captured. He died in a prisoner of war camp. Awarded the Bronze Star while living; the Medal of Honor posthumously in 2013 by Barack Obama.

I first heard about him several years ago when I first joined the Men’s Group at St. Clare’s. Serra offered a short history of Fr. Kapaun along with the WWI Museum tour – he’s the real reason I here today.

In 1993, Pope John Paul II declared him a Servant of God, the first stage on the path to canonization.

In 2013, Kapaun posthumously received the Medal of Honor for his actions in Korea. He is the ninth American military chaplain Medal of Honor recipient.

1315 - 1330 Return to Marriott Hotel

1515-1600 USA Council Membership Meeting

1700-1800 Mass Immaculate Conception Cathedral

Immaculate Conception Cathedral

I Samuel 3:1-10 “Here I am your servant is listening” “Speak for your servant is listening” Psalm 19:2-3, 4-5 John 21:15-19 “As the Father loves me so I also love you” . . . This I command you: love one another” Sat next to the President of the Miami Club, Tom Jude – he recognized me - RAINING AT THE END of MASS – I didn’t melt on the walk back

1800-2100 Welcome Reception & Dinner at Hotel – Cardinal Thomas Collins and his Conclave Experience – quite frankly a letdown – a good dinner – e bottles of wine on each table – if I would have known that I wouldn’t have bought a 12 oz bottle of Miller LITE for $12 – sat with folks from Kansas City – Cardinal Collins – maybe if the sound system was better . . . . . think I learned about Cardinal Priests, Cardinal Deacons, Cardinal Bishops – all cardinals are priest of Rome and have a church . . . .

Friday, June 27, 2025

Weather: Sunrise: 0553 78 at 6 am forecast high of 90 cloudy-partly cloudy Sunset: 2248 Kansas City, MO

Travel: Kansas City, MO

Kansas City Marriott Downtown – WIFI slow – there is housekeeping

SERRA INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION

“Chosen To Serve”

0730-0900 Serra Leadership Program – John Liston explained Board functions and a brief overview of Robert’s Rules of Order

0900-0945 Stephen Minnis, President of Benedictine College – OK the college supports vocations – the college is dedicated to Mary – Humility – Hospitality – the Rule of Benedict is the oldest constitutional document in the World – Chapter 2 LEADERSHIP – ‘are you willing to go bankrupt for your belief’ – Faith – ‘behind every successful man is a surprised mother-in-law; may have worked if he had alluded to Truman – OK not impressed with him as a Keynote – Leadoff Speaker

Fr. Paul Sheller, OSB

0945-1025 Rev. Paul Sheller, OSB, Director of Spiritual Formation, Conception Seminary College – although his message was a vocation story - this guy had it together – at least he mentioned the theme “Chosen to Serve’ – sees change in young people today – promotes silence in order to LISTEN – perhaps supports family retreats IDEA: about 30 minutes a good possible video for a SERRA program

1030-1045 Break

045-1125 Bishop Thomas Daly, DD, Diocese of Spokane – always enjoy listening to Bishop Daly – even though this also was a ‘vocation story’ – ‘are you doing God’s work or God’s will’ – Challenges: Fear Compromise Lack of Faith – spoke to the theme ‘called to serve’ – VOCATION-EDUCATION-SALVATION

1145-1300 Lunch sponsored by SI Foundation – met Cindy Bell – top shelf lunch salmon

1310-1400 Breakout Vocations – Membership – Foundation

Attended the Vocations breakout for a brief time – there were twice as many people there as set up with chairs – somebody ordered more chairs but I had decided to leave –

Union Station - Kansas City

Confessions were being held across the hall – I sat in a chair in an open area and watched the line grow – as 5-10-15-20 people leaned against the wall someone decided to ask for chairs – by that time I had decided to get a postage stamp – I wanted to mail a card to Joan Sipple from Serra, about the loss of Lloyd

The Adventure of Getting a Postage Stamp took the next 1 hour and 45 minutes.

- The desk didn’t have any postage stamps and thought the nearest post office was at Union Station – about a mile away

- The internet indicated a Post Office about a half-mile down the street and up the hill – sure enough – the Federal Building – but the Security Officer told me the Post Office was closed – nearest Post Office was Union Station

- So I walked a half mile back to catch a trolley to Union Station – bought a stamp for 73 cents and took the trolley back and two blocks up a hill

- By now it was 3:30 pm – I went to Confession - Adoration

1400-1440 Breakout Communications Programs

1445-1530 Sr. Nancy Rose Gucwa, OSB General Councilor and Development Director, Benedictine Sisters of Perpetual Adoration – I missed this presentation – all said it was good – Sister Nancy Rose was a West Point graduate – a late vocation ‘nun with a gun’

1540-1610 Rosary

Cardinal Thomas Collins
1700-1800 Memorial Mass at Hotel – Cardinal Thomas Collins, Episcopal Advisor, Serra International, Archbishop Emeritus of Toronto – a Mass of Remembrance for deceased Serrans - intention for deceased Serrans: Don Uhen’s name was on the list – not enough time to add Lloyd Sippel’s

Cardinal Collins’ homily never fails – it was the Feast of the Sacred Heart – which together with Devotion to the Blessed Sacrament and Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary are tied to Corpus Christi – the beating heart – Thump-Thump-Thump:Faithful Faithful Faithful – a symbol of steady faithful love – ended with a story about a crucifix in WWII that had its hands blown off – the church did not restore the hands – he ended “you are His hands” - I sat next to Catherine Ahern Regional Director – met here in November up in Minneapolis

1830 - Dinner on your own. Fr. David asked me to join his crew from Ohio for dinner, Mike Bragg, his wife, Wes, Dick and Gino Matteo – Uber’d to Pierpoint’s Union Station – Linked up with the Wednesday night crew plus Mike Bragg – all from Ohio. We took an Uber and Bragg’s car to Union Station. They gave us in a private room on the lower level. The waitress grew up in Sullivan, Waukesha County, The dinner was expensive but an excellent KC Strip Steak – probably my first and only time I’ll ever have one in Kansas City.. Came back and a nightcap of Jameson in the Hospitality Room.

Saturday, June 28, 2025

Weather: 73 at 6am mostly sunny, forecast high of 90 Sunrise: 0553 Sunset: 2248 Kansas City, MO

Travel: Kansas City Marriott Downtown

SERRA INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION

"Chosen to Serve"

0800-0840 Global Rosary

Abbot Gregory Polan, OSB

0845-0925 Abbot Gregory Polan, OSB, Abbot Primary, Conception Abbey another vocation story – good speaker wanted to listen to him – related to the 60’s which he saw as a time ‘of beauty and richness in the Catholic Church’ because grade schools were full of sisters, parishes had 3 or 4 priests - “learn to burn with you own oil” - the mystery of God’s plan brings us to U turns in Life – I got the message – “we live in a time of biblical explosion in terms of studies . . . .”

0930-0945 Break - coffee

0945-1035 State of SERRA – SI President Moira McQueen – travels with much of the board all around the world – visiting clubs – trying to establish Serra in Germany – Mali – Arab countries

Anne Roat, President of Serra USA, recognized me from the November Regional meeting in Minnesota – came up to speak to me – asked, if again, I was alone? – the only member from my club - Wisconsin

1045-1130 Town Hall Meeting perhaps new members – ‘first timers’ always concerned about money – they haven’t done their homework – don’t really prepare by delving into the background – just talk for the sake of talk – they want to be heard

1200 Lunch on your own

Fr. Nathan Rueb - Fr. Daniel Morris

1300-1340 Round Table: Fr. Nathan Rueb, Fr. Daniel Morris – Vocation Directors both
are reasonably new priests – with vocation calls later in life - Rueb age 35 – Morris 50 – impressions: Rueb although junior seemed more willing to listen and seemed innovative, open – Morris perhaps more conservative, closed, unfriendly

1345-2420 Serra Around the World – videos from Thailand, Hong Kong, Nigeria, Mexico, Great Britain, Italy – Anne Roat, President of Serra USA, gave an in-person report without slides or video

1435-1445 Break coffee & cookies

1445-1545 Delegates Meeting Reports by each of the VPs & Treasurer, elections - biggest issue was an amendment to the by-laws for a permanent rather than ad-hoc HR Committee – I voted against a permanent committee with about a third of the others – however, the amendment passed

~~1545-1615 Regional Meetings~~ asked Catherine Ahern – no meeting for North Central

1700-1800 Mass at the Hotel – Most Rev Joseph F. Naumann, DD

1830-1900 Cocktail Reception – didn’t bother – ridiculous prices $12 domestic beer, $18/glass wine $20+ cocktails – there were two bottles of wine on the tables

1900-2220 Annual Banquet – a wonderful dinner of salad, steak & chicken wrapped in some delicious something, riced something, vegetables, cous-cous and a marvelous chocolate dessert which I passed on. Sat at a table with 2 people from Kansas City – the guy I sat next to went to High School with Lynn Dickey, and another couple from Texas – and two men from Kansas City clubs - joined by ‘Sam from Houston’ and his wife-they were delightful – he was a convert but originally from Wisconsin – his wife loved the churches of Milwaukee – and attended the first Wednesday Mass of Fr. Mike Malucha, at St. Roberts, after his ordination

To sum up this conference, I didn’t get as many new ideas as in the past but I did develop stronger friendships, renewed dedication, met some new friends, received more understanding of faith and achieved a degree of peace.

Sunday, June 29, 2025

Weather: 74 and rain at 5 am Sunrise: 0553 Kansas City, MO Sunset: 2235 Burlington, WI

Travel: Uber around 6 am to the airport – why it was $65 to get back to the airport when it only cost $32 to get here Wednesday is a mystery to me – Kristin later remarked ‘a late Saturday evening makes Sunday morning a premium for Uber drivers’ - Southwest KCI-MKE LV 0815 AR 0940 Storms delayed the departure by 45 minutes – home by noon ILO eleven

Friday, July 31 – August 1, 2025

Weather: approximate Sunrise: 0554 Sunset: 2034

The weather was perfect . . . . .

Travel: Left on Friday – Returned Sunday - Burlington – Durand, WI – Burlington

This is the 13^th Annual event and I don't know why have I never attended before . . . . Amy & Jon have.

The music is non-stop when the Main Stage band stops – the Local Stage band at the opposite end of the park begins

The weather was perfect the best bands on Friday were the Avery Grouws Band, some thought perhaps Hot like Mars even Left Wing Bourbon on the local stage was good ; Saturday spent all day there – beginning with Aunt Julie’s Bloody Mary’s

Jon and Amy knew Larry – a trumpet player now with Jay Stulo and the Blue Notes, it only got better The Dylan Salfer Band (the lead guitarist looked like a cross between Stevie Ray Vaughn and Prince in velvet) and the finale of The Rico McFarland Band was a show stopper bass, organ, drums and guitar – every one of them a top notch musician. This was blues . . . .

Got to go again next year.

Dylan Salfer Band

Rico McFarland Band

Saturday, August 16, 2025

Weather: cloudy - a bit of rain in the afternoon Sunrise: 0559 Sunset: 1959

IRISH FEST and a BIRTHDAY

Thursday, August 21, 2025
Weather: Sunrise: Sunset:
Travel: Burlington - Brown Deer Golf Course - Hilton Milwaukee - Home

Got an invite to attend the NGAUS Exhibitors Golf Outing at Brown Deer Golf Course.
The invite originated from TAG Wisconsin to ESGR. Jim Malcolm and I attended. I had the opportunity to attend the Exhibitor event twice before. First in 1998 when the conference was in Milwaukee - I was filling in for a member United Defense. The second was in Puerto Rico in 2007. I have no interest in attending the NGAUS golf outings for members anymore - to much hassle carrying clubs around - the last I attended was in Las Vegas in 2021.

BROWN DEER GOLF COURSE –

ESGR Exhibit #1610
Baird Center
Delivered on pallet

at the invitation of MG Strubb ESGR had the opportunity for 4 people to attend the event. Only Jim Malcolm and I did attend. We were not put in the same foursome. I was in a foursome with 3 of MG Strubb’s friends – all who MOC – and were in the construction business – none had served in the military. The best foursome won with 6 under par, two teams had 4 under for 2^nd and third. We came in with even par. Pat Griffin, Matt Rielley, Peter Schwaube. After the golf I had a conversation with Blaise Lemke, NGAUS Legislative Affairs Manager, Army Programs.

From Brown Deer Golf Course I went to the Baird Center/Hilton. Paul met me at 1700 in the Wisconsin Hospitality Suite – President’s Suite Milwaukee Hilton. We both went home for the evening.

Friday, August 22, 2025

Weather: mostly sunny – high Sunrise: 0605 Sunset: 1944

Travel: Home to Milwaukee Hilton

On the way to Milwaukee I stopped at the Max A Sass Funeral Home on Hwy 36; a prayer service for Claire Zellner – field artillery officer that I served with the 57^th FA Brigade HQ. The priest who led the prayer service was good – humor mixed with a message How do you make holy water? Boil the hell out of it. The overriding message was that Claire will not be remembered by what she did but by who she was. He referenced Lazarus, Mary, Martha and Jesus. And used the analogy of the caterpillar – dies - forms a cocoon – and is reborn as a butterfly.

NGAUS CONFERENCE 2025

I checked on the ESGR booth. I had found out earlier that it was set up as promised by Event Services. I was offered a chance to go with BG (Ret) Gary Ebben to the Brewer’s game. His wife Tina did not want to go. I passed – mainly because I wanted to stay around here and see what was going on at the ‘mixers.’

After a visit to the Hospitality Suite, walked to the Field Grade Officer Mixer at The New Fashioned, 1122 Vel R Phillips Ave (4^th St). Walked on Wisconsin Avenue east to 4^th ST; north on 4^th St (Vel R Phillips Ave) 4 blocks - FISERV Forum area – Deer District. Met up with a crew form the 32^nd Brigade
COL (Ret) Mike Hanson and Janell
COL (Ret) Steve Bensend
COL Joe Davison
COL (Ret) Leah Moore
LTC (Ret) Ann Schedivy-Tollefson & Gina Scehdivy
CW5 Bill Krueck and Laurie
COL (Ret) Bob Klinger playing accordian in the Hospitality Room.

Saturday, August 23, 2025
Weather: 68 and sunny, forecast high of 75

Sunrise: 0605 Sunset: 1942
Travel: Milwaukee

NGAUS CONFERENCE 2025

Opening Ceremony - Color Guard

0700 Fun Run | Veterans Park
0800 on the floor at the ESGR Exhibit until1115
9 to 9:10 a.m. Ribbon Cutting Ceremony | Hall E Entrance
9:10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Exhibit Hours | Hall B-E
10:40 a.m. to Noon Brunch (Complimentary in Exhibit Hall) | Hall B-E
11 a.m. to Noon Committee on Nominations | S203 C
11 am to 5 p.m. First Business/Professional Development Session | Hall A
Entrance thru Exhibit Hall E only

1100 Call to Order

General Caine - Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff

1120 GEN Dan Caine, Chairman JCS praised the National Guard during his address at the 147th General Conference & Exhibition. Speaking to nearly 4,000 NGAUS members, exhibitors and their guests from across the country, Caine expressed deep gratitude for the Guard and outlined his priorities for the Joint Force. “When you mobilize the Guard, you mobilize the nation,” Caine said. “Rooted in all of our history is the Guard. From 1636 to 2036 and beyond, the Guard will always be there.” The Guard, a joint component of 433,000 Soldiers and Airmen across every state, territory and the District of Columbia, consists of almost 80% enlisted personnel.

“It is the Joint enlisted force that brings us the true exclusivity that America's combat power has,” he said. “Often times, I contend that no one in the world is better than the enlisted force in the National Guard, because you bring your civilian experience together with your military experience. You deliver exponential returns for the United States of America.”

Senator Tammy Baldwin
Harry S. Truman Award – Senator Tammy Baldwin. Legislation introduced last week by Sen.Baldwin., would ensure premium-free medical insurance coverage is provided for all members of the National Guard and Reserve. If passed, the Healthcare for our Troops Act would give Guard and Reserve members access to no-fee health care through TRICARE Reserve Select. Currently, TRS charges a fee for medical and dental coverage. Health insurance coverage is not just a benefit but a Readiness issues.

Rockie Lynn Band

1145 Wisconsin Welcome – Rockie Lynn Band - this was a surprise – or a well kept secret
– apparently Mark Mitchie had ties with this guy. Rockie Lynn Rash – a patriot - is an American country music artist, known professionally as Rockie Lynn. He was signed to Universal South Records in late 2005, releasing his self-titled debut album in early 2006. This album produced three singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts, including the No. 29-peaking "Lipstick". Honestly never heard of him, but the band was good. A half hour patriotic song concert – mostly songs he’s written.

ROLL CALL OF THE STATES always ‘an event’ but I didn’t bother,and manned the ESGR Booth through the coffee break.

1345 Exhibit Hall Beverage Break (Complimentary in Exhibit Hall) | Hall B-E

General Randy George - Army Chief of Staff

1450 GEN Randy George, COS – US Army The Army’s chief of staff says the National Guard’s readiness is crucial in an increasingly "volatile" world. Gen. Randy A. George added the Total Army — including the Guard — must transform how it operates to keep up with rapid changes in technology. "It is a dangerous world," he told Guardsmen at the 146th NGAUS General Conference & Exhibition in Detroit Saturday. "It is something I haven’t seen in my time in uniform.

In one exchange, George described lessons the Army has learned about drone warfare from the war between Russia and Ukraine. "It is a lesson observed until you actually change how you train and operate and change how you operate and change how you buy things," he said. George reminded his audience that "being a professional is the foundation of who we are in the military."

"It is what gives us trust with the American public," he said. "It shows we have standards and discipline in our formations." George additionally praised the Guard for keeping "very busy" in recent years, adding that the nation will need the "whole Army" in the future.

General Steven Nordhaus
Chief National Guard Bureau

1515 GEN Steven Nordhaus, CNGB We’re in the business of credible deterrence, peace
through strength. With 40% of the Army’s operational combat forces and 30% of the Air Force’s combat forces, we create incredible dilemmas for our adversaries. Our operational capability with strategic depth continues to help counter those threats that are out there that we see on the news around the globe. However, we must concurrently modernize our forces at pace and speed with our active-duty counterparts in the Air Force and the Army, so we are always ready and always there. We must also continue to advance our capabilities in cyber and UAS and counter UAS to stay ahead of changes in the character of war that we see in such places like Russia and Ukraine.

6:30 to 10:30 p.m. Governor’s Reception | Discovery World
Dress: Yacht/Boating Theme (Conference Badge Required) (All Badged Attendees are Invited) Exceeded my expectations. I had never been to the Betty Brinn Chjildren's Museum/Discovery World. The event was catered by Bartolotta. Plenty of bars to purchase beverages. Sliders and mini brats for food. Several events going on. Never made it to all of them. Paul and Sarah joined me for the evening but went back home – their boys had football Saturday morning.

Sunday, August 24, 2025
Weather: 58 at 0630, forecast high of 70, mostly sunny Sunrise: 0607 Sunset: 1937
Travel: Milwaukee

NGAUS CONFERENCE 2025
7 to 8 a.m. Religious Services Catholic | S202 D,E Protestant | S201 C
8 a.m. to Noon Second Business/Professional Development Session | Hall A
Entrance thru Exhibit Hall E only

0840 to 0930 Panel Discussion – The National Guard’s Strategic Importance in the Indo-Pacific

MG Lance Okamura, HA ARNG, Deputy Commander-Homeland Affairs, US Army Pacific (left center) gave an overview of the threat. Compared the British in WWII= they delayed but finally surrendered to the Japanese. “We must go forward, to preserve the peace that we won in war. The lesson learned in WWII is that even a superpower can face defeat. The geo-political situation is pretty much the same it was in WWII but there are many more multiple challenges: nations/military/political.

PEACE TRHOUGH STRENGTH. ORGANIZE-GENERATE-APPLY There is a JRTC in the Pacific – Phillipines. AK-HA-GUAM are homeland. 38^th ID & 40^th ID.

BG Carla Riner, DE ANG, Advisor to A/3, Pacific Air Forces (right center) there are huge distances in the Pacific – 100 million square miles – 52% of the earth’s surface.

BG Paul Sellars, WANG, Asst AG, Partnered with Thailand & Malaysia (right) ARNG partnerships with Thailand – WA & RI. Marshall Islands are looking for a partnership.

0930-1000 Exhibit Hall Break

9:30 to 10:15 a.m. Coffee Break (Complimentary in Exhibit Hall) | Hall B-E
Panel Discussion – UAS and Counter UAS: Do Our Capabilities Match the Threats?
9:30 to 10:45 a.m. NGB Spouse Seminar (All Conference Spouses are Invited) | S201 C
11 a.m. to 3 p.m. NGAUS Spouse Luncheon (Registration Required) | Pritzlaff Building
11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Retired/Separated Caucus/Luncheon/Elections | Harley-Davidson Museum

Noon to 1 p.m. Lunch (Complimentary in Exhibit Hall) | Hall B-E
2 to 3 p.m.

1400 to 1530 Fire Support Task Force (Army) | S202 C Paul attended – didn’t hear much that I remember – except that massing of artillery in one place just isn’t going to happen anymore. The lone gun or a launcher with a robotic launcher next to it is the way of the future. Put guns on a gun line. Their dead.

Here we are with Rockie Lynn

6 to 10 p.m. Hospitality Night | Multiple Locations
Pilot Project Brewing – MI,MN,OH,PA,SC,AZ,FL,VT,RI,MA,NH,CN,BAE Systems
Double Tree Roof Top – WA,OR,ID,NE,MT,UT,HA
Hyatt Place – NM,CA,PR
Oak Barrel – MS
Mo’s Irish Pub – WI
Riverwalk Room - LA
Started this evening early at the Oak Barrel – meet Paul & Sarah there – early in time to eat there – then moved on to Mo’s -another surprise – open bar and the Rockie Lynn Band started at 7 – played non-stop until 9:15. Shots of Jameson. Enough. I went home.

Monday, August 25, 2025
Weather: cool but sunny Sunrise: 0608 Sunset: 1937
Travel: Milwaukee

NGAUS CONFERENCE 2025
8:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Air Separate Session | Grand Ballroom C

Army Separate Session | Hall A

LTG Landis, MG Davis, Blaise Lemke,
MG Lamberton

Presiding Officer: MG Hal Lamberton, KY NGAUS Vice Chair Army
MG Robert D. Davis – Deputy Director ARNG this guy was a talker – sat behind the table and could talk and talk – for 20 or 30 minutes saying that the Budget Requirement is 37 billion – the Army approves 28 billion – and the Congress give us 17 billion.

LTG Mark Landis – Commanding General First US Army Large Scale Combat = Constant Observation/Constant Fires “ we have to figure out to get back to maneuver warfare and get units do what their supposed to do. This guy was good – you better listen. He called up MG Richard Johnson FORSCOM Deputy Commander Army National Guard, Forces Command – unprepared this guy did a commendable job – Transformation may include a name change – form FORSCOM to US Army America – interesting I’ve also heard that the Defense Department may go back to the War Department.

I THINK I HAVE HEARD ENOUGH AT THIS CONFERENCE THAT WE ARE NOT JUST GOING IN CIRCLES – IT MAY SEEM LIKE THT BUT ITS ALL NEW – AND TO ME THAT’S SCARY.

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Third Business/Professional Development Session | Hall A
1 to 6 p.m. Free Time - Lunch on you own

5:30 to 6:30 p.m. No-Host Cocktail Reception | Baird Ballroom Foyer

Charlie Behrens

6:15 p.m. Doors to States Dinner Open | Baird Ballroom
6:30 to 10 p.m. States Dinner & Entertainment | Baird Ballroom (Registration & Conference Badge Required) Dress: Dinner Supper Club This was held in the Baird Ballroom (new built over the old MECCA) I was impressed – truly Wisconsin Supper Club. The entertainment – a new approach – comedian Charlie Berens. A one hour performance - I laughed - however, surrounded by Wisconsinites – hope the rest found him entertaining – at least they all stayed seated ELSE many just leave.

Tuesday, August 26, 2025
Weather: 52 at 6am high of 71 Sunrise: 0609 Sunset: 1936
Travel: Milwaukee to Home

NGAUS CONFERENCE 2025
I helped to load at 8 am - Looking forward to Indianapolis in 2026. Hope they have a bus – if so – I’ll take it.

Name tag was a single piece flexible plastic with the schedule on the back. In my opinion – the Baird Center, the mixers in the Deer District, Discovery World Governor’s Night, Harley Davidson Retiree Luncheon, Spouses Luncheon at the Pritzlaff, Hospitality Night, even the Army Separate Session – all the speakers were meaningful – this could all be the Best Ever. Even the traditional bag held only the basics of what you needed instead of a lot of stuff that you just throw away. Maybe not flawless – but few saw it – except for the busses/transportation – sometimes not on time and long lines – waiting – but I heard it wasn’t run by Wisconsin but contracted out and the Hospitality Night was spread out – maybe too far between.

Labor Day muscle electronics

Labor Day muscle electronics
it was funny

Labor Day showoff
Michael Jackson routine

Kenosha Conservatory of Music
Kenosha Moose Lodge
Bloomin' Bands Sep 6 2025

Thursday, September 4, 2025

Weather: cool Sunrise: 0619 Sunset: 1920

Travel: Home to Brookfield Conference Center

PALLIUM LECTURE – “Synods, Councils, and Creeds – Treasuring Our Catholic Inheritance Today” Presented by Most Reverand Daniel E. Flores, S.T. D Bishop of Brownsville, TX

An annual event since 2012 – I attended in 2023. Speakers have included Fr. Robert E. Barron(2012) , Cardinal Timothy Dolan (2013), Fr. Anthony Pogorelic 2014) , and Msgr James Shea (2023).

A pallium is a liturgical vestment worn by the Pope and metropolitan archbishops, symbolizing their authority and unity with the Pope. It is a narrow band of wool with a central loop resting on the shoulders and two pendants hanging down the front and back, resembling the letter "Y" and decorated with six black crosses. The pallium represents the Archbishop as the Good Shepherd carrying the lamb signifies his pastoral role and his tie to the Holy See. This was further explained as part of the program by Dr. Lydia LoCoco, Director of Evangelization, Archdiocese of Milwaukee.

The evening started with hosted beer, wine and cheeses at 6 followed with ”Evening Prayer” with he Schola Cantorum of St. Francis led by Fr. Brad Krawczyk and opening remarks by Archbishop Jeffrey Grob.

The lecture was a the opening keynote to a conference on The Legacies of Nicaea and Vatican II: An Inhertance of Uunfolding, hosted September 4-7 , at Marquette University.

Bishop Flores presentation was historical and theological – perhaps metaphysical and philosophical – in a word it was HEAVY but I found it interesting. A few take-aways:

‘history is open to be understood’

he referenced Lectio Divina: Lectio-Read Meditatio-Reflect Oratio-Respond Contemplatio-Rest

traced the history of the Nicene Creed from the Council of Nicaea in 319 and the arguments through to the Council of Constantinople in 381 – a mix of culture and understanding

the profession of faith – doxology 1 God 3 persons and how all of this is in the Creed – maker -word-spirit ONE GOD

‘words’ – ‘but do we do not know what the words really say’ - a mystery of faith

Satruday, September 13, 2025

Weather: high in the upper 70’s mostly sunny Sunrise: 0619 Sunset: 1920

Travel: Home to Kenosha Civil War Museum

“The Many Sides of the Antietam Campaign”

I only took 1 photo during the presentations – sat second row right in front of the podium next to all of the speakers. This was the best symposium I’ve been to in 18 years i.e. since the first in 2008. Well worth the investment.

This book had little or nothing to
do with his presentation, yet
he was selling it

Faces of Antietam and the 40 Acre Cornfield by John Banks

Synopsis: The stories of soldiers who fought on the southern end of the battlefield, including Henry Adams of the 16th Connecticut. Suffering from two bullet wounds to his right leg, the 22-year-old private lay incapacitated in no-man’s land for more than 40 hours before comrades rescued him Sept. 19, 1862. Decades later, he wrote about his experience: “Why did I not die?”

A lot of short personal stories of the dead and wounded at Antietam. HE had many letters written by wounded soldiers on the battlefield – some lived – most died soon after writing. A lot on the 40 acre cornfield and the 16^th CT – at the southern end of the battlefield after the Burnside Bridge. An interesting perspective and enjoyable to listen to.

“Credit to which it is entitled.” Perspectives on the Artillery Battle of Antietam by James A. Rosebrock

Synopsis: Despite the important role played by the cannoneers at Antietam, there has never been a detailed study of their actions in the fields and woodlots around Sharpsburg. The talk brought the role of the artillery to light. There are four components of light artillery – men and organization, guns, ammunition, and artillery horses, addressed some of the advantages and disadvantages of both the Federal and Confederate artillery commands at Antietam, and discussed the effects that terrain, tactics, and leadership had on the outcome of America’s bloodiest day.

This guy did an outstanding presentation. He divided the Battle of Antietam into 7 artillery fights or corridors. I bought his book at lunch. However, he didn’t sign it and he vanished for the afternoon. The Confederates had the ‘flying artillery’, the federal artillery was underused and under the control of the Division Commanders. Henry Hunt had just been appointed Chief of Artillery on September 5^th and had not yet organized the artillery that was decisive at Gettysburg. He’s apparently a guide at Antietam – use him when you return.

Antietam Landmark: The Dunker Church by Alann Schmidt

Alann Schmidt
Dunker Church

Synopsis: Antietam’s Dunker Church is one of the most iconic structures of the Civil War, but itis also one of the most ironic. In the middle of the worst part of the worst one-day battle our country has ever seen stood a humble church dedicated to peace! The presentation provided a comprehensive overview of the history of the church, beginning with the background of those who worshipped there. Then a look at the church’s role in the Battle of Antietam and its aftermath, and the many lasting impacts on the area. Finally, the many ups and downs (figurative and literal ups and downs!) the church went through in the years since the Civil War. Many little-known facts about the Dunker Church – like the role it played in the memorialization of the battle and development of Antietam National Battlefield, the many years the church was actually missing, and even a connection to Mark Twain.

This guy was not a historian but a preacher. His presentation was excellent. I learned a lot about Dunker Church – it was after all the most recognizable landmark on the battlefield for North and South.

Gordon Dammann

Medicine and the Battle of Antietam by Gordon Dammann

The Battle of Antietam (Sharpsburg) fought on September 17, 1862 goes down as the bloodiest day in American history as both armies suffered 23,000 casualties in a 12 hour period.

The medical injuries played a large role in the Battle. Four Generals – 2 Union and 2 Confederate, suffered wounds or injuries that played a large role in deciding the outcome of the battle. An injury to Robert E. Lee’s wrists and hands on August 28, 1862 hampered his ability to command. The death of General Jesse Reno on September 14, 1862 greatly affected the Union’s ability to fight. The wounding of Confederate General John B Gordon during the action at the Sunken Road proved significant in the defense of this vital stronghold. On the Union side, the mortal wounding of General Israel Richardson greatly altered the momentum of an attack on the same Sunken Road. This presentation will examine these four men and how their wounds and injuries affected the outcome of the Battle of Antietam.

I’ve heard Gordon in the past – he’s gotten much better. This was an interesting take on the question of what if . . . never looked at it that way but the BOTTOM Line would have been different if these four warriors had not been injured or killed in action in September 1862.

The Orpheum on State Street, Madison, WI was home to Jon Batiste on September
24-25. I'm not a fan of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert but apparently
Batiste was the band leader from 2015 through 2022. First time I was ever in the Orpheum. Art deco similar but much smaller than the Oriental. This was Batiste's 'Big Money' tour.

Batiste is an incredible musician and composer. He opened with a number of variations from Beethoven's 5th, then covered blues, - transitioned to Dixieland, jazz, rock, and originals. The band was full of Class A musicians. He wrote the soundtrack for Disney's "Soul". He started the show solo similar to Hugh Laurie's concert that I saw at the Pabst , then the band gradually joined him ass the sound got bigger.

This band was outstanding.

The end of the concert was unique. Led by Batiste, the entire band played while they exited up the center row of the theater emerging in the balcony right where I was standing. Surprised - it was amazing that I even got a picture. You can make out the tuba, violist, and mandolin players.

Dretzka Park - October 11

Dretzka Park - October 11
His team won the Championship superbowl
in Madison tow weeks later

Six Flags Fright Fest - this show was a parody of Rocky Horror. Superman, Batman, and a bunch of other rides that I really didn't want to go on - but it worked out - didn't mess upt the insides too much. Actually a lot of fun with Chad, Sara, Amanda.

Veteran's Day November 11, 2025
Chad and family were honored
UW beat Ball 86-55

Jon arrange through UW Athletics
for the Veteran recognition
Paul was there but unable to participate
due to he is still in uniform, the government
shutdown and a whole bunch of other red tape

Thursday, NOVEMBER 20, 2025

Weather: 40's - clouds over Wisconsin until 4pm, drizzle most of the the day

Sunrise: 0650 Burlington Sunset: 1642 Buffalo, MN

Travel: Burlington – Brule River State Forest HQ, 6250 S. Ranger Rd, Brule, WI 54820 – Hampton Inn, Superior, WI

426 North Country Scenic Trail

On October 2, 1968, President Johnson signed into law the National Trails System Act. This law set in motion a process to create a network of national scenic trails. The Act established two national scenic trails, the Appalachian and the Pacific Crest, and directed Federal agencies to conduct studies of 14 other routes, including the North Country Trail route. The North Country National Scenic Trail was authorized and added to the National Trails System on March 5, 1980. Today, there are eight national scenic trails in various stages of development.

The
Brule River behind Ranger Station
North Country NST is administered by the National Park Service in cooperation with other Federal, State, and local agencies, private organizations and landowners who host, develop, or maintain portions of the trail. When Congress authorized the North Country NST it was anticipated that it would be approximately 3,200 miles long. As work progresses to complete the trail, it appears as though it will actually be about 4,200 miles long.

The long term goal is to establish a continuous trail that is developed and managed as a premier hiking and backpacking trail, nationally significant in its scenic and recreational qualities. Segments which meet this intent and other criteria can be certified by the National Park Service as part of the North Country NST.

Map North Country Scenic Trail - Gaylord Nelson Trailhead

The National Park Service has certified over 1775 miles of trail as official segments of the
trail. In addition, there are an additional 500-700 miles of trail that are hike-able but not yet certified. Hikers can find a wide variety of hiking opportunities along the trail from short easy segments that can be covered in hours to challenging hikes over hundreds of miles that take weeks. There are long continuous portions of the trail extending for over 100 miles in all seven states.

The marker speaks for itself - Wisconsin Granite - Sen Gaylord Nelson

North Country Scenic Trail
marker at the Gaylord Nelson
trailhead - white blazes on the trail

The trail traverses a variety of settings from federally designated Wilderness to urban corridors in small towns and large cities. It links natural features like lakes, waterfalls and high peaks with historic mills, locks, ghost towns and canals. It also connects vast farmlands with old growth forests, popular tourist attractions with remote wild places, vistas and beaches. It ties the varied landscapes of the Lake Superior Region with the mountain peaks and ponds of the Adirondacks and the fields of the Ohio River valley with the vast plains of North Dakota.

The Brule River State Forest offers exceptional recreational opportunities, including river paddling, world-class trout fishing, wildlife viewing, a 23-mile stretch of the North Country National Scenic Trail and 9 miles of Lake Superior shoreline. All 44 miles of the Bois Brule River are contained in the forest.

The North Country National Scenic Trail stretches 4,800 miles across eight states, making it the longest National Scenic Trail in America. Similar to the Ice Age Trail Association, the North Country Trail Association (NCTA) and the National Park Service (NPS) work together to unite the community that builds and maintains the North Country National Scenic Trail and tells its story. With guidance from the NCTA, the NPS, and other land management and trail organizations, the majority of on-the-ground trail work is done by hundreds of volunteers, who are assembled into over two dozen Chapters along the Trail.

Friday, NOVEMBER 21, 2025

Weather: Sunrise: 0720 Buffalo, MN Sunset: 1637 Durand, WI

Travel: Hampton, Inn Superior, WI - Christ the King Retreat Center, Buffalo, MN – Durand, WI

SERRA NORTH CENTRAL REGION FALL CONFERENCE

Christ the King Retreat Center, Buffalo, MN

0930 Registration

1000 Welcome

1010 Speaker: Dr. Paul Ruff, Director of Human Formation and Counseling, St. Paul Seminary

1050 Break

1110 Club Reports

1200 Lunch

1245 Speaker: Dr. Anne Roat, President, US Council of Serra Internantional – The Future of Serra

1345 Speaker: Giovana Rodriguez Garcia – How To Use Club Express

1445 Club Reports

1515 Where to Hold Next Years Regional Conference

1600 District Meetings

1700 Social

Left around 4:15 - the drive through Minneapolis . . . I would have preferred Chicago. Got to Durand around 7 pm - burgers and an evening at a hunting cabin - actually a very pleasant house on a hill - oh yeah this was Durand and deer season opened Saturday at dawn . . .

Saturday, November 22, 2025

Weather: Sunrise: 0641 Durand, WI Sunset: 1624 Burlington, WI

Travel: Durand to Burlington

Monday, December 8, 2025

Paul was promoted to Brigadier General. The ceremony took place in the Senate Chamber of the Wisconsin State Capitol.

Paul taking the oath as he is promoted Brigadier General by Major General Matthew Strub,
Adjutant General for the State of Wisconsin. Some lucky guy got to hold the Bible.

UPDATE ON NATIONAL PARK CHECKLIST

Sites Run By the National Park Service that I have not visited

Ameche NHS, Grenada, CO - created 2/15/2024 (Biden) Japanese internment camp

Blackwell School NHS, Marfa,TX - created 7/17/2024 (Biden) created ‘separate but equal’ educations Mexican/Americans

Carlisle Federal Indian Boarding School NM, Carlisle, PA - created 12/9/2024 (Biden ‘oppression of native Americans’ been there many times, even have my name inscribed on a plaque there, home to the Army War College

Frances Perkins NM, Newcastle, ME - created 12/15/2024 (Biden) 1^st female cabinet member, Secretary of Labor under FDR, created Social Security, minimum wage, 40 hour work week

New England National Scenic Trail, ME, CT - created some say long ago – but new to me and the National Park Traveler’s Club and probably the National Park Service – stamp supposedly at the Springfield Armory (I’ve been there) - actually the ‘triple M trail system’ – connecting a 235 mile trail system already in exitance giving it ‘federal’ status

Interesting – just like Obama – all these ‘created’ just before the President leaves office – commemorating the ‘oppression’ of Japanese-Americans, Mexican- Americans, Native Americans, the working class (Obama pretty much took care of the African-Americans) . . . . the scenic trails - just political ‘pork’

I’ll close the way I began – This year I kept track of the books I (listened to) In addition to more than a few books read this year, I also listened to the following titles

Ghost Fleet: A Novel of the Next World War

PW Sanger/August Cole 14 hours 25 minutes

Written by two forward thinkers from the Army War College - a futuristic look at WWIII – read the hardcover some years ago had to listen again

Never Call Retreat: The Centennial History of the Civil War Vol 3

Bruce Catton 19 hours 16 minutes

Read this, seems a long time ago

Terrible Swift Sword: The Centennial History of the Civil War Vol 2

Bruce Catton 20 hours 3 minutes

Another that I’ve read in the past,,,,

The Earth is Weeping: The Epic Story of the Indian Wars for the American West

Peter Cozzens 18 hours 39 minutes

An interesting history of the Indian Wars – it was a ‘free read’ offer if I finished it in 21 days or less

The Sillmarillion

J.R.R. Tolkien 14 hours 49 minutes

I read this is what could have been ‘long ago, far away’. Not the same without the maps and reference to the genealogy charts of Tolkien.

Longstreet: The Confederate General Who Defied the South

Elizabeth Varon 14 hours 45 minutes

Longstreet still my favorite. Varon does a good job with history.

An Army At Dawn: The War in North Africa (1942-43) The Liberation Trilogy Volume 1

Rick Atkinson 32 hours 41 minutes

Part I of a trilogy. I read the hardcover years ago

The Day of Battle: The War in Sicily and Italy (1943-44) The Liberation Trilogy Volume 2

Rick Atkinson 32 hours 41 minutes

Part 2 of the trilogy

The Guns At Last Light: The War in Western Europe (1944-45 The Liberation Trilogy Volume 3

Rick Atkinson 32 hours 18 minutes

Part 3 of the trilogy

Shiloh: In Hell Before Night

James Lee McDonough 26 hours 5 minutes

Another where I read the hard cover – had to hear it again because of the Chicago Civil War Roundtable’s spring trip to Shiloh

The War on Warriors (Behind the betrayal of the men who keep us free) –

Pete Hegseth 8 hours 10 minutes

Of course I had to listen to it again when he was appointed SECDEF

Vicksburg: Grant’s Campaign that Broke the Confederacy

Donald L. Miller 21 hours 28 minutes

Gateway to the Confederary – New Perspectives on the Chickamauga and Chattannooga Campaigns

Edited by Evan C. Jones & Wiley Sword 12 hours 34minutes

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