After Action Report: Sailor's Creek/High Bridge Living History

Dragoons,

 I would be remiss if on the first event of the season, I failed to give you my first AAR as the unit's newly elected captain.  But as the saying goes, the cavalry arrives just in the nick of time. 

Even with its sparse number of mounted troopers we made it up with boots on the ground.  In fact, we had more boots on the ground then we had in the saddle.  Sailor's Creek had a mild attendance during the day, but we made due and were able to muster up small crowds for two demos.  Mentioned in these dispatches is a heartfelt gratitude to Dave Mize, Mike Riggleman, and our new recruit hopeful Jonathan Betancourt for carrying out the narration for the demos with tag team precision. Thank you gentlemen for your expertise in making living history special for the park guests.

 At High Bridge on Sunday, our ranks whittled down to two; Corporal Frankie and yours truly.  However, a crowd (estimated over 30+) were waiting for us when we arrived.  One guest was even at Sailor's Creek the day before and asked "where are the rest of the troops?"  At which I duly responded, "We've been driving Bobby Lee since Petersburg and it was a hard fight yesterday.  Some of our numbers were pulled to the rear to recoup and recover."  Which is not too far from the truth.  We gave one in depth demo that was entertained with some very intriguing questions.  Those in attendance were engaging and interested throughout.  After the demo, Corporal Frankie headed home, but I stayed on another hour riding the trail to the high bridge interacting with park guests there and back again.  All the while Mystery was neighing to his buddy Eagle realizing he was accomplishing this final mission on his own.  

It's been an honor serving as your captain on the field. Looking forward to Gettysburg NPS memorial day weekend. 

Very Respectfully, Your Obedient Servant

Brad E. Thomas

Captain, Commanding

2nd U.S. Cavalry Company A/9th Virginia Cavalry Company D