N-SSA Skirmish Line Winter 2024

Spring 2022 Volume 66 ~ Issue 4

THE MAGAZINE OF THE NORTH-SOUTH SKIRMISH ASSOCIATION, INC.

Winter 2024 Volume 69 ~ Issue 1 In this Issue: Minutes from the Winter Board Meeting and Stories from readers.

HISTORY. COMPETITION. CAMARADERIE.

The N-SSA promotes the competitive shooting of Civil War firearms and artillery while encouraging the preservation of battlefields, artifacts, clothing and education of the period.

The Skirmish LineTM is the quarterly publication of The North-South Skirmish Association, Inc.

Non-member annual subscriptions are available for $24 per year (U.S. Funds) Editor & Publisher Editor, Eddie Davenport ~ nssaeditor@gmail.com National Photography Officer ~ Allissa Weber Contributing Photographers ~ Niki Bethke, Walt ‘JR’ Zdon, Lis Cole, Brittany Cole Visit our website at: www.n-ssa.org The N-SSA Corporate Seal and the magazine title, The Skirmish LineTM, are registered trademarks of the North-South Skirmish Association, Inc. Reproduction in any form or manner without the expressed written consent of the N-SSA Board of Directors is strictly prohibited. All pages are copyrighted by the North-South Skirmish Association, Inc. and The Skirmish LineTM magazine.

Text and images in this publication are the property of the original owners (Authors). Text and images may not be published separately, in hard copy or electronically, without the expressed written permission of their owner(s). The authors and advertisers are responsible to secure the proper permissions and right to publish articles, photos, and illustrations not created by them. The North-South Skirmish Association, Inc., The Skirmish LineTM, and its staff are not responsible for copyright infringement. Please contact the Editor for questions relating to any matter, including but not limited to permission to copy materials herein.

Disclaimer: The North-South Skirmish Association does not guarantee, warrant, or endorse any product or service advertised in this publication. The publisher also does not guarantee the safety or effectiveness of any product or service illustrated, mentioned, offered, or advertised herein.

The publisher does not assume responsibility as to whether or not products or services advertised in this publication comply with all state or local laws which may be applicable in regard to the purchase or usage of such products or services.

Warning: The author(s), The Skirmish LineTM and its staff, and the North-South Skirmish Association, Inc. cannot accept any responsibility for accidents or differing results obtained using techniques, products, and combinations thereof that will make results vary. Firearms should be checked before firing and periodically thereafter by a competent gunsmith and all manufacturer’s instructions and warnings must be followed.

1 Skirmish Line Winter 2024

On the Cover October 2019 prior to the start of Individual matches Photo by Craig Goheen

A heartfelt thank you to all our contributors. If you have anything you’d like to share, please don’t hesitate to reach out via email at n-ssaeditor@gmail.com.

Features, Articles and Columns.

The Firing Line

4

Welcome New Recruits

5

National Commander Message

7

Deputy National Commander Message

8

149th National Schedule

9

Taps

11

God Carries an Enfield

12

Feature on Safety Glasses

13

Society of Color Bearers

15

BOD January Minutes

18

Message from Tidewater

24

Chuck Wagon

24

Black Powder Maniac Makes a trip to the N-SSA

25

N-SSA goes to Hollywood

27

Advanced Guard

21

Change of Address Requests Please send all address changes to: Sherry Myers N-SSA Executive Secretary PO Box 309 | New Eagle, PA 15067-0309 If your household receives multiple copies that you’d prefer not to receive, please email execsecretary@n-ssa.net.

You must include your Zip+4 to receive The Skirmish Line

Skirmish Line Winter 2024 2

Note From the Editor

Send in any photos or articles that you feel may be of interest to other N-SSA members. When sending photos, please include captions and the names of those pictured. Don’t forget to credit yourself as the writer.

Submit all articles in text format (ex. Word, not a pdf).

All photos must be at least 300 dpi (credit the photographer).

Submit via e-mail to nssaeditor@gmail.com.

You will receive a return email confirming receipt.

Spring 2024 Publication Submission Deadline June 23, 2024 - Please be prompt. I will be at the MLAIC World Championship in August 3 Skirmish Line Winter 2024

The Firing Line As the editor of the N-SSA, it is my pleasure to welcome you back to the excitement of competition and the camaraderie that defines our unique community.

After a brief hiatus, we are thrilled to announce the resumption of our events.

The firing line awaits, and we eagerly anticipate the familiar sights and sounds that make N-SSA competitions truly special. Your passion and dedication have been missed, and we are excited to once again come together to celebrate the spirit of our shared pursuits.

As we gear up for the upcoming season, I extend a warm invitation to all members to share your stories, experiences, and insights with us. The N-SSA magazine is a reflection of our community, and its quality is only as good as the contributions from our members. We need your submissions to make our magazine vibrant, diverse, and representative of the N-SSA spirit.

Whether you’re a seasoned writer or someone with a unique story to tell, your voice is crucial to the continued success of the N-SSA magazine.

Your submissions will shape the content and showcase the depth of our community.

Wishing you all a fantastic season ahead, filled with camaraderie, friendly competition, and the joy of pursuing our shared interests. I look forward to seeing familiar faces, as well as welcoming new members into our close-knit community.

FInally, I want to talk about our friends in the NMLRA. They have a numerous competitions throughout the year. We, as a organization should support them and foster that friendship. They are our friends and it would not take much to get them into our organization.

Until next time keep your powder dry and your shot’s X’s Eddie Davenport Editor-in-Chief, The Skirmish Line Hannover Greys (11366V)

Skirmish Line Winter 2024 4

North-South Skirmish Association National Commanders

Welcome to all New Recruits New Members 8/1/2023 – 2/28/2024 December 1, 2022 – March 27, 2023

*John Gilmer

1956-1958

Allegheny Region

1

*James Waters

1959-1962

Carolina Region

8

*Albert Hardin

1963-1964

*Carl Jensen

1965-1970

Richard Corrigan

1971-1974

*Frank Schoch

1975-1976

*John Sharrett

1977-1982

*James McAleer

1983-1984

John Robey

1985-1988

*Royal Inge

1989-1992

Earl Coates

1993-1996

Gary Crawford

1997-2000

Earl Coates

2001-2004

*Charles Smithgall

2005-2008

Linwood McMahon

2009-2012

Phillip Spaugy

2013-2016

David Booz

2017-2020

Charles Kindle, Jr.

2021 -

Central Virginia Region

17

Chesapeake Region

8

Deep South Region

10

Mid-Atlantic Region

5

Midwest Region

8

New England Region

1

Northeast Region

1

Northwest Region

2

Potomac Region

20

Tidewater Region

2

Western Region

4

5 Skirmish Line Winter 2024

A * denotes deceased commander

Best Quality Quality for for Traditional Traditional Rifles Rifles Best Schuetzen Black Black Powder Powder Schuetzen and 4-Wing 4-Wing Musket Musket Caps Caps and

Schuetzen Black Powder

Schuetzen Powder Energetics, Inc. 866-809-9704 www.schuetzenpowder.com Skirmish Line Winter 2024 6

From the office of the

National Commander Dear N-SSA Members, I hope you had a good winter, and I look forward to seeing everybody once again this spring at the Nationals.

The January Board meeting was very productive. The budget, however, continues to be a source of difficulty, with funds having to be allocated from different areas to cover mandatory expenses. The potential for a shortfall continues to exist if funds are needed for any unexpected circumstances.

We have some special plans in the works for the celebration of the 150th Nationals this fall.

There has also been some work taking place regarding the implementation for the use of a “password” for access to the Rules and By-Law portion of our website. This idea has been in the works for some time now, and has the full support of the organization’s lawyer and its insurance liaison. I will have more information about this at the May meeting, and will be able to discuss it in greater detail then.

I want to thank everyone for their continued patience while working with all of us on the Board.

See you at the Spring Nationals.

Stay safe, and be well,

Chuck

Chuck Kindle National Commander

7 Skirmish Line Winter 2024

From the office of the

Deputy National Commander Greetings Skirmishers The new season is upon us and several skirmishes have been held in various regions. I know that is good to get back into the swing of things and try out those new techniques, firearms, rounds, powder charges, etc; from over the winter.

One thing that I have noticed and heard in the Board Meeting in January, is that the Regions are starting to visit gun shows to recruit and hold recruit skirmishes to get potential new members the opportunity to give a musket in their hands, shoot at paper, then shoot at breakable targets. This sort of grass roots recruiting is what will make the organization grow. We have a new (old) team standing inspection at the spring Nationals. The 2nd Ohio, which went inactive a few years ago, is reforming and will shoot this Spring. I am hearing of potentially two more teams, hopefully by Fall Nationals, in the Deep South and the Central Virginia regions. It is impressive to me to see the growth, again from a grass roots level. Keep up the good work all of you!

Keep safe, keep your powder dry and see you on the line!!!

Dave

Dave Cole Deputy National Commander

Skirmish Line Winter 2024 8

Appendix B

149th National Skirmish

May 15-19, 2024 Fort Shenandoah

Host Teams: 1st Richmond Rifles,003CV* Norfolk Lght Infantry, 006TW* Old Dominion Dragoons 017TW* Wythe Rifles, 019TW* 120th NY Vol. Inftry 097EN* 1st Reg. Ill. Vol. Lght Inftry 104WR* Dixie Artillery, 109CV* Battery C, 1st Mich Lght Artillery 120NW* 3rd North Carolina, Lenoir Braves 143TW* Lancaster Fencibles, 153MA* 66st North Carolina Reg.,Co C,169TW* 46th Ill.Vol Inftry Reg. 178WR* 1st Mich. Engineers & Mechanics 170NW* 7th Tenn Inf Reg., CSA 215NW* 15th Ind. Battery, Ohio Lght Artillery 227CH* Rowan Artillery, 258TW*

Skirmish Director: Ralph Shaw, 1st Richmond Rifles

Small Arms Committee (SAC) Inspections – Hocker-Hughes Building – IG Office, Wed.-Fri. mornings only – 9:00-11:00AM Executive Secretary Office Hours – Wed: 1:00-3:30PM Thurs-Sat: 8:30-2:30 Sunday: Closed --SCHEDULE OF EVENTS –

Tuesday, May 14 – Sunday May 19, 2024 Registration/Target Pickup: Noon Tuesday – Noon Sunday

All Members are required to sign-in at Registration.

Wednesday, May 15, 2024 8:00 Required Training: All Range Personnel – Stat House.

8:15 Required Training: Line Judge at Stat House, Ord. at Main Tower-Tower Staff behind Main Tower 8:30 Scorers Training, Stat Personnel: inside Stat House 8:30-9:00 Set up ranges for Individual Matches 9-5:00 Main & revolver ranges open for Individual Matches Thursday, May 16, 2024 7:30-8:00 Set up ranges for Individual Matches 8-5:00 Main & revolver ranges open for Individual Matches 4:00 Revolver ranges closes, set up for Smoothbore Team 4-6:00 Artillery Inspections – 1st Va. campsite 4:30 Smoothbore Pistol Team Match 1:00 PM 5-6:00 PM 7:30 PM

Non-Shooting Events - Thursday

“Doc” Chambers Memorial Golf Outing SCV & UDC Social – lower-level History Center Board of Director’s Meeting – lower-level Vets Bldg.

Friday, May 17, 2024 7:30-8:00 Set up main range for Individual Matches and set up revolver range for Revolver Company Matches 8:00-10:00 Artillery Inspections – 1st Va. campsite 8:00-11:45 Main range open for Individual Matches 8:00-9:15 Phase I Revolver Company Match 9:15-10:30 Phase II Revolver Company Match 10:30-1:30 Resume Revolver Individual Matches 11:00 Artillery meeting - all cannon/mortar crews – Barn 11:45-12:15 Set up main range for Smoothbore Match 12:15-1:45 Smoothbore Co. Match 2 relays, 2 teams per Pos. 1:45-2:15 Set up main range for Breechloader/Spencer Match 2:15-3:15 Breechloader/Spencer Match – 1 relay, double hang 3:00-5:00 Tenderfoot Ind. Matches – revolver range (targets, air rifles & safety glasses issued).

3:15-3:45 Set up main range for Single Shot Match 3:45-4:30 Single Shot Match – 1 relay, triple hang 4:30-5:00 Set up main range for Mortar Match 5:00-6:00 Mortar Match 10:00AM 11-1:00 6-7:00PM 7:30PM

Non-Shooting Events – Friday

Inspection of Probationary Teams – IG Office Sewing Circle – lower-level Vets Bldg. (open to all) AA meeting – lower-level Vets Bldg.

Membership Meeting in the Barn. All units

must be represented.

8-9:00 PM History Comm Speaker Series Low Level Vets Bldg.

9 Skirmish Line Winter 2024

8:30 PM Irish Jam – Ruritan Pavilion – All are welcome Saturday, May 18, 2024 7:30-10:00 Tenderfoot Ind. Matches – revolver range (targets, air rifles & safety glasses issued). Last relay 10:00AM. 7:30-11:00 Stat Office open for Individual Match protests; the reconcile period will end at 11:45 am.

8-11:00 Artillery Inspections – 1st Va. campsite 8-8:30 Set up main range for Carbine Company Match 8:30-12:00 Carbine Company Match 11-11:45 Tenderfoot Ind. Match protests – SAC/IG Office 12:30-1:00 Set up main range for Artillery Matches 12:45 Tenderfoot Team Match Check-in – main range, Position 55+ (Match begins at 1:30PM) 1:00-5:00 Artillery Matches 3:00 Protest period closed for completed Company Matches 3:30-5:00 Individual awards available for pickup – Stat House 5:30-6:00 Tenderfoot Awards Ceremony – Memorial Park 6:00 Awards Ceremony (no Artillery or Musket) – Memorial Park

Non-Shooting Events – Saturday

4-7:00 PM Gainesboro Fire Hall – Roast Beef & Ham Dinner 7:00 PM Protestant Worship – lower-level Vets Bldg.

8:00 PM Catholic Worship – lower-level Vets Bldg.

9:00-11:30 Barn Dance Costume Committee Events – Saturday, May 18, 2024 11-12:00 Registration: Infants, Children, Girls, Boys Civilian & Boys Military 11-12:45 Registration: Young Ladies, Adults & Revolving Trophy 12 Noon Children’s Competition; Young Ladies, Adults & Revolving Trophy category competitions to follow 4:00 Robert L. Miller Award – Memorial Park

Costuming events are held in Memorial Park. In case of inclement weather, competition will be held in lower level of Veteran’s Bldg.

Sunday, May 19, 2024 7:30-8:00 Set up main range for Musket Co. Match – 3 relays 7:30-10:00 Stat Office open for Artillery Match protests 8:00 Opening Ceremonies; Match immediately follows 12:00 Registration closes ca . 1 :3 0 Musket Match Protests close ½ hour after final results a r e post e d 2:00PM Awards Ceremony - Memorial Park, Musket and Artillery awards will be presented at this time.

Final cleanup of ranges begins

Smoothbore Pistol Team Match (3 competitors/company) 1. (12.5 yards) 9 clay pigeons on a backer 2. (12.5 yards) 6 hanging 6"x6" ceramic tiles 3. (12.5 yards) 6 hanging clay pigeons 4. (12.5 yards) 6 hanging 4"x4" ceramic tiles

Breechloader (4 competitors/company) 1. (50 yards) 32 clay pigeons on a backer 2. (50 yards) 16 hanging 4”x4” ceramic tiles 3. (50 yards) 16 hanging clay pigeons 4. (100 yards) 10 hanging 6”x6” ceramic tiles

Revolver (4 competitors/company) 1. (25 yards) 12 clay pigeons on a backer 2. (25 yards) 6 hanging 6”x6” ceramic tiles 3. (25 yards) 8 hanging clay pigeons 4. (25 yards) 8 hanging 4"x4” ceramic tiles

Spencer (4 competitors/company) 1. (50 yards) 32 clay pigeons on backer 2. (50 yards) 16 hanging 4”x4” ceramic tiles 3. (50 yards) 16 hanging clay pigeons 4. (100 yards) 10 hanging 6”x6” ceramic tiles

Smoothbore (4 competitors/company) 1. (25 yards) 12 clay pigeons on a backer 2. (25 yards) 8 hanging 4”x4” ceramic tiles 3. (25 yards) 8 hanging 3.5”x 3.5” wood blocks 4. (50 yards) 6 hanging 6”x6” ceramic tiles

Single Shot Breechloader (4 competitors/company) 1. (100 yards) 6 hanging 6"x6" ceramic tiles 2. (50 yards) 16 clay pigeons on a backer 3. (50 yards) 8 hanging 4"x4" ceramic tiles 4. (50 yards) 8 hanging clay pigeons

Carbine (8 competitors/company) 1. (50 yards) 32 clay pigeons on a backer 2. (50 yards) 16 hanging 4”x4” ceramic tiles 3. (50 yards) 16 hanging clay pigeons 4. (50 yards) 16 hanging 3.5”x 3.5” wood blocks 5. (100 yards) 10 hanging 6”x 6” ceramic tiles Musket (8 competitors/company) 1. (50 yards) 32 clay pigeons on a backer 2. (50 yards) 16 4x4 hanging ceramic tiles 3. (50 yards) 16 hanging clay pigeons 4. (50 yards) 16 hanging 3.5”x 3.5” wood blocks 5. (100 yards)10 hanging 6”x 6” ceramic tiles

Company Match Events

Fort Shenandoah Winchester, Virginia

Arrows on the map below indicate one-way traffic on Fort Shenandoah roads unless otherwise posted during the event. Failure to obey these restrictions will result in a citation and disciplinary action by the N-SSA Board of Directors. If you experience any problems while at Fort Shenandoah, please dial 911. Emergency evacuation routes are posted on all bulletin boards and available at the Executive Secretary’s office. AEDs are located at Doc’s Place or Registration and in each Sub-tower and Stat House during shooting events.

Skirmish Line Winter 2024 10

TAPS Donald Coville

Winter 2024

15th CT Volunteer Infantry

Eugene Early 4th KY Cavalry Ray Hess, Jr.

Durell’s Independent Battery

Gary Kraus 37th Georgia Paul Lampman Cockade Rifles Larry “Muck” Muckenhirn

19th Indiana

Arnold Rey

2nd NJ Volunteer Infantry

Gus Ruggiero, Sr.

Union Valley Volunteers

Joseph Syler

Founding Member, 14th Tennessee

Gerhardt (Gary) Vikar

Former National IG

Margo Weathers Forney’s Battalion, USMC Rob Weiber

21st VA Infantry, MD Guard

Billy Young Rowan Artillery Michele T. Dam

1st Michigan Volunteer Infantry

“Unable are the loved to die. For love is immortality.”

- Emily Dickenson

11 Skirmish Line Winter 2024

During opening ceremonies at the 149th National, a memorial salute will be fired for the members we’ve tragically lost during this past offseason. If you are interested in participating in this event, please come to the Friday membership meeting and see Mike Davenport for details. A short meeting will be held to iron out details of Sunday’s salute.

GOD CARRIES AN ENFIELD By an Anonymous Skirmisher

The following article was submitted by a Skirmisher of our organization who wished to remain anonymous “God carries an Enfield!” This sentiment echoes the sentiments of Civil War ordnance authorities who considered the Enfield a crucial infantry arm during the tumultuous times of the Civil War. In William B. Edwards’ seminal work, “Civil War Guns,” the Enfield is referred to as “the North’s second rifle,” underlining its significant role in the conflict. On the Confederate side, the Enfield was the “first rifle,” smuggled through the Yankee blockade in substantial numbers.

Confederate soldiers, from Virginia to Texas, carried many thousands of Enfields, including rifle muskets, rifles, and short-barreled musketoons or carbines.

However, not all Enfields were created equal. The British government’s official neutrality during the Civil War led to a prohibition on the sale of government-made weapons to belligerents. While few guns produced at the Royal Small Arms Factory at Enfield likely saw service, private arms producers in London and Birmingham stepped in to fill the void.

The resulting influx of ersatz Enfields from these private manufacturers during the war years added a layer of complexity to the Enfield landscape.

In the early stages of the war, the Confederate forces secured a contract for high-quality, “machine-made” London Armoury Enfield copies with interchangeable parts. On the other hand, most Union issue muskets were “hand-made” guns from Birmingham. These weapons, assembled from parts forwarded by various contractors, exhibited a lack of interchangeability, making it challenging to create a unified, reliable Enfield.

The quality of hand-made Enfields varied widely. Soldiers of the 35th Massachusetts Infantry, for example, faced issues with excessively hardened nipples that rendered their muskets useless after firing.

Similarly, the 15th New Jersey expressed dissatisfaction with their Enfields after the Battle of Salem Church, citing poorly finished parts and loading difficulties.

Colonel William Penrose of the 15th New Jersey, in a letter to Major General John Sedgewick, complained about the Enfields being “refuse ones” and advocated for their replacement with Springfields. Despite these challenges, the aftermath of the Battle of Gettysburg provided a solution as the soldiers marched away with Springfields discarded on the battlefield.

While some soldiers faced issues, others considered their Enfields on par with Springfields. Modern reproductions of the Enfield by various makers continue to be popular among Civil War reenactors and skirmishers. The availability of quality replicas has led to a decline in original Enfield usage, but these historical firearms remain prized possessions among Civil War collectors.

Despite the reverence for the Enfield in the muzzle-loading community, not everyone finds it a perfect fit. The straight stocks of Enfields, known for their recoil characteristics, have led some, including the author, to opt for Springfields. However, most enthusiasts do not encounter such issues, and the popularity of Enfields endures.

In the grand tapestry of muzzle-loading history, the Enfield rifle musket stands as a testament to innovation, adaptability, and the intricate

interplay of firearms in times of conflict. Whether in the hands of Civil War soldiers or present-day reenactors, the Enfield continues to evoke a sense of the past, connecting us to the challenges and triumphs of those who wielded it in one of the defining chapters of American history.

As we delve deeper into the legacy of the Enfield, it becomes apparent that its impact extended beyond the battlefield, influencing the course of the Civil War and leaving an indelible mark on the collective memory of a nation torn by strife. The Enfield wasn’t merely a tool of war; it was a symbol of resilience, adaptability, and the relentless pursuit of technological advancement.

One cannot discuss the Enfield without acknowledging its pivotal role in shaping the strategies and tactics employed during the Civil War. The availability of these rifles, especially among Confederate forces, altered the dynamics of engagements and forced both sides to reassess their approaches. The Enfield’s reputation as a reliable and accurate firearm elevated its status on the battlefield, instilling confidence in those who carried it.

The Southern states, faced with the challenges of limited resources and a naval blockade, turned to the Enfield as a viable solution.

Thousands of these rifles, procured through clandestine means, found their way into the hands of Confederate soldiers. The Enfield became a symbol of defiance, a tool that allowed the South to stand toe-to-toe with its adversaries despite being outgunned and outmanned.

On the Union side, the Enfield played a crucial role in the hands of both regular troops and specialized units. Its widespread use prompted a reevaluation of the Union’s arsenal, with military leaders recognizing the need to adapt to the changing landscape of warfare. The Enfield’s impact was not limited to its effectiveness in battle; it also spurred advancements in firearm technology and influenced subsequent developments in military arms.

As we reflect on the enduring legacy of the Enfield, it’s essential to appreciate its significance in the broader context of the Civil War. Beyond its mechanical attributes, the Enfield embodied the spirit of innovation and resilience that defined an era marked by upheaval and transformation. The stories of soldiers struggling with loading difficulties or expressing dissatisfaction with their Enfields add a human dimension to these historical artifacts, reminding us that behind every rifle lies a tale of sacrifice, perseverance, and the indomitable human spirit.

In conclusion, the Enfield rifle musket transcends its role as a firearm; it is a symbol of resilience, adaptability, and the complex interplay of technology and warfare. Its influence on the course of the Civil War is undeniable, and its legacy endures in the hands of reenactors, collectors, and historians who seek to unravel the multifaceted narrative of this iconic muzzle-loader.

Skirmish Line Winter 2024 12

Some Thoughts on the Shooter’s Eyes and Vision

by Donald E. Dixon

Not having perfect vision doesn’t mean you can’t be a crack shot. When I jumped into competitive shooting with a .22 target rifle during my college freshman year, my eyes weren’t exactly top-notch. The Reserve Officer Training Corps tested me at 20/800 in one eye and 20/850 in the other, pretty much legally blind in most states without corrective lenses. But here’s the deal – you don’t need superhero vision. What you need is vision that can be fixed up to 20/20, and a good fix for astigmatism if it’s hanging around – all of which comes with some solid optometric care.

Shooting isn’t about having eagle eyes; it’s about seeing the rear sight, the front sight, and the target. Truth bomb: it’s impossible to see all three super clear at the same time. The textbook trick? Focus on the front sight, kind of like a “church of the front sight” vibe, and be chill with the rear sight and target being a bit fuzzy. Young guns might think they can focus on all three simultaneously, but that’s just a flex of their eye flexibility, aka accommodation. Fast forward to the 40s and 50s, and most of us lose that superpower as our eye muscles become less bouncy.

Reading glasses for the never-glasses crew and bifocals for the always-glasses squad become a thing. And in today’s world, throw in the need for computer glasses.

Now, when our accommodation ability takes a hike, it shows up in our shooting game – wonky shot columns, clear targets but fuzzy sights, or maybe the reverse. Those progressive lenses in your everyday glasses? Not gonna cut it in solving this problem. You can’t keep the same head position shot after shot.

Finding an optometrist who gets your shooting vision struggles can be as hard as hitting a bullseye blindfolded. I once told a doc I needed to resolve visual stuff to better than half a minute of an angle for my high-power target rifle gig at 1,000 yards. His response? People can’t see that well. Another genius thought people don’t need to see that well. Not helpful, guys.

A pro tip? Bring your firearm to the optometrist’s office. Use trial lenses to figure out a prescription that sharpens focus about eighteen inches downrange of the front sight. Now, this requires a doc who’s okay with firearms and maybe some patience because carrying a cased shoulder weapon into a public space can turn heads. Also, the light at the optometrist’s office is not the same as the sunny day at the range – just a heads up.

Enter Dr. Allen Toler’s game-changing system. Based in Richmond, VA (https://customsightpicture.com), Dr. Toler isn’t just an optometrist; he’s a national-level high master competitive shooter – a real shooter’s shooter. His kit includes sixteen lenses of increasing power, fifteen tinted lenses with no magnification, and a lens holder that clips onto your regular glasses. This isn’t your usual optical shop stock; these lenses are cut in one-eighth diopter increments. Compared to the standard one-quarter diopter increments, this system lets you fine-tune your shooting glasses like never before.

Take the kit and your firearm to the range. Try the lenses until you get a crystal-clear front sight and a reasonably clear target. Be careful not to overdo it; a slightly fuzzy target is what you want. Trust me, too clear can mess with your focus on the front sight. Test the kit on all your regular ranges since lighting can play tricks. I’ve noticed about an eighth diopter difference between shooting in my basement and outdoors.

Now, about finding the sweet spot for your prescription’s center on your shooting glasses. Regular glasses have their center right in the middle.

But when you’re in shooting position, you’re not looking through the center of the lens. Dr. Tolar gets it. He helps you find the center where you need it – not just dead center. Hang a target, get in position, aim, and mark the lens with a Sharpie where you’re looking through. For rifle shooting positions, I have three points on my lens, and Dr. Tolar centers the prescription on those. Back in my high-power rifle days, I had three sets of shooting glasses for pistol, short-range rifle, and long-range rifle. It’s a bit of compromise on the long-range lens for reading those target number boards at 600 to 1,000 yards. And remember, these glasses are for shooting, not for looking cool on the street.

Now, onto the colored lenses that Dr. Tolar offers in grey, yellow, and pink. Back in the day, the Eastern Bloc took a scientific approach to sports.

They experimented with different lens colors to find the best contrast for shooters. Light pink turned out to be a winner for many top-notch shooters. That’s been my experience too, but some shooters swear by yellow or grey. It’s a trial-and-error thing.

Astigmatism – a common visual bug – affects about 80% of the population in a mild form. Shooters, listen up – this needs fixing. Uncorrected astigmatism turns that round bullseye into an oval, messing with your shooting mojo. My master eye has significant astigmatism, and a misguided Army optometrist once fixed me to 20/20 but forgot the astigmatic correction. My shooting went south till another doc at Fort Benning figured it out. Contacts? Nope, they failed too. A high master shooter buddy with 20/20 vision still rocked glasses for eye protection and astigmatism correction.

13 Skirmish Line Winter 2024

For more eye-opening thoughts, check out Dr. Norman Wong’s articles at https://starreloaders.com/edhall/nwongarts.html. You can’t shoot if you can’t see, and at 76, my secret sauce for staying competitive is good optometric care. Another N-SSA Distinguished Revolver shooter even wished he’d tried Dr. Toler’s system five years earlier in the game.

Now, I’ve earned my stripes – N-SSA Distinguished Skirmisher Badge (silver), Distinguished Shooter Badges for Revolver (silver), Carbine, and Breechloading Rifle. Bagged the grand and revolver aggregates. Got the International Master Badge from the U.S. International Muzzleloading Team. And rocking the Distinguished Rifleman and Distinguished Pistol Shot Badges with President’s Hundred Tabs in service rifle and pistol.

Competitive shooting ain’t just about sharpshooting; it’s about seeing sharp. Cheers to good optometric care and staying on target, folks!

Pictured above Shooter Eye Test Kit

50

Skirmish Line Winter 2024 14

2023 Report Society of Color Bearers and Advance Guard Proud Donors to the N-SSA

By Wayne Jordan, Charitable Giving Committee In 2023, N-SSA fundraising encountered challenges, marking the first decline in donations since the inception of our campaigns. Various factors contributed to this setback, including the aftermath of the challenging investment markets in 2022, which had a widespread impact on nonprofits. Fortunately, recent months have seen a strong market recovery, offering hope for a more prosperous 2024.

Additionally, some previous donors expressed dissatisfaction with the N-SSA's delayed dues increase, straying from the expected balanced budget. Addressing this concern is a priority for the coming year, as we aim to re-engage these donors.

We understand that everyone's financial circumstances differ, and personal situations change. For those considering donations to nonprofits, we encourage you to include the N-SSA among your chosen beneficiaries alongside your church, school, and other charities. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we accept tax-deductible donations.

Especially noteworthy for those over 70 ½ with an IRA account is the opportunity to make tax-free donations directly from the IRA to the N-SSA. This applies to Required Minimum Distributions and helps avoid taxes and associated Medicare IRMAA penalties. Additionally, we welcome donations in the form of appreciated stocks, mutual funds, and other assets. Many employers may also match charitable contributions, doubling the impact of your support.

Already, donations for 2024 are being received from our members. The General Fund requires ongoing support for maintenance and capital projects, detailed in upcoming Skirmish Line editions. The Advance Guard Endowment Fund, established in 2023 for long-term sustainability, is now earning interest and growing, aiming to provide perpetual support for the N-SSA. Despite challenges with mail delivery this winter, our address remains unchanged. If your donation was returned, we kindly ask you to resend it.

In 2023, N-SSA received a total of $49,256 in donations. Notably, $22,737 was directed to the Advance Guard Endowment Fund, while designated donations totaled $3,230. We had 149 unique donors, with an average donation of $330 and a common contribution of $100. All donors are automatically enrolled in the Society of Color Bearers, with Endowment Fund donors becoming members of the Advance Guard.

15 Skirmish Line Winter 2024

As of December 31, 2023, the Advance Guard Endowment Fund holds $67,919, invested in bank CDs yielding close to 5%. To keep our members informed about fundraising needs and innovative donation strategies, we have initiated an email database. If you're not already on the list, feel free to reach out via email. Your continued support is crucial to the success and longevity of the N-SSA.

DONATE DIGITALLY BY USING OUR NEW QR CODE We now have another way to make donations. The QR code can be scanned with your cellphone and it will take you to the official N-SSA website Donations page where you can quickly and easily make a donation by credit card or Paypal. After it takes you to the page, just scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on the donate button. Be sure to include your mailing address.

Or send in a check using the form below. Maybe you still have a return envelope from a recent mailing. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Would you like to mail in a donation now? Just print and send this form with your donation to: N-SSA ,

c/o Wayne Jordan, Charitable Donations Committee, 8606 Eagle Glen Terrace, Fairfax Station, Va 22039

Name ____________________________________________ Amount of donation__________ Address _______________________________ City ____________ State ______ Zip_______ Email _________________________________ Phone ________________________________ Credit card #_________________________________ Exp date__________ CVV___________ General Fund or Specific Purpose? _________________________________________________ All Checks should be made out to the N-SSA. All donors will receive a letter of receipt by mail. The N-SSA is a 501 c 3 organization and donations are eligible for tax deductions.

2023 N-SSA DONOR LIST Below is a list of the 2023 donors, by category.

There is also a supplementary list of donors who have Joined the Advance Guard, or answered the call for specific projects that needed funding, or donated for other specific purposes or dedications. 3

Skirmish Line Winter 2024 16

Sergeant Major ($5000+)

Jordan, Wayne & Joy Zebelean, III, John

First Sergeant ($1000$2499) Burgess, James Cahoon, Thomas Easterling, J. Frank Hansen, Roger/Chevron Match Kapper jr, Frank McBean, Ross Miller, Bruce & Terri Shepherd, Bette White, Thomas Winklepleck, Kenneth

Sergeant ($500-$999) Booz, Dave & Barbara Dennis, Mark Druen, Raymond Estok, John Hovatter, Kent Moore, Steven Taylor, Nick Wood, James

Corporal ($250-$499) 12th US Amazon Smile Bondurant, Charlie Brown, John Campbell, Gordon Cash donations at Membership Meeting Clowdis, K. blair Conner, Duff Corrigan, Richard Dorner, Steve Hayes, Daniel & Yvonne Krug, Matthew Newman, Dan & MaryAnne Scott, Greg Taylor, Howard Thomas, John Wainwright, Ralph Wainwright, Ralph & Dorothy Walsh, Wayne Zahner, Peter

17 Skirmish Line Winter 2024

Bugler ($100-$249)

11th New Jersey Acton, Michael Angermaier, Dennis Barker, Chuck Bendy, Jr, Marv Bendy, Jr, Marvin Bertam, Eldon Bertram, Eldon Bologna, John Brady, James Coumes, Jim Cramer, Wiliam Early, Charles Easterling, Frank Easterling, Joe Frank Elko, Anne Elko, Ed Freeman, Robert Gaede, Fred Garman III, Walter Gravatt, Glenn Greketis, Dan & Maryanne Hall, Jeffrey Hammond, Steven Hanser, Robert Harris Light Cavalry Heiser, Doug Heizer, William Herlinger, Fred Hessong, Rick & Christine Holland, Lyle & Brenda Hoover, Larry Horne, Ken, Nikki, Mary Ann Intravia, Rick & Christine Koch, James Krafchick, Ned Krafchick, Ned & Julia Lease, Jeffrey Lindstrom, Alan Middlekauff, Vic Miller, Marj Moore, Kenneth Nipar, John Oliver, Frank Patton, David Penney, Thomas Pickens, Brian Powers, Philip “Skip” Rambo, F William Reddick, Gordon Ridgeway, James Roberts, Michael

Robson, Tom Rowe, Roger/Chevron Match Ryan, James Sheppard, Gary & Susan Smith, Jerry Snair, Dale Spencer, Wayne Stedman, Dan Stoneburner, Paul Vail, George Wade, James Whipple, Terry & Sharon Whitlock, David & Frank Wright, David Wright, Edward

Private (Up to $99)

Back Creek Gun Shop Bakley, Jr, Carlton Barber, Ray Barker, Thomas Carver, John Comeau, Richard Davenport, Mike Dietze, Dan Dixon, Donald Doyle, John Early, Gene Farago, Zoltan Fiebig, Doug Fuderer, George Gibson, Daniel & Karen Graff, Dan Harbin, Jr, Rod Hayes, John Hines, Bob Hobbs, Anne Holmes, David Horne, Norman Howey, Chris Jezior, Stan Knapp, Louis Lakota, Dmytro Lee, William Lintner, Robert McCart, Connie Murphy, Robert Riemer, Mark Ruggiero, Anthony Ruggiero, Mary Schell, Fred Schell, Frederick Sheets, John

Smith, Fred Smutko, Ray Snaider, Richard Vail, Greg Venskoske, John Wingenbach, David Zumstein, Bruce

Dedicated Donations Sponsor denotes donations of $1000 or more toward the project Area 5 Restrooms Bondurant, Charlie Advance Guard Endowment Fund Bologna, John Burgess, James Cahoon, Thomas Conner, Duff Dietze, Dan Easterling, J. Frank Gibson, Daniel & Karen Hammond, Steven Hansen, Roger/Chevron Match Hoover, Larry Jordan, Wayne & Joy Kapper jr, Frank Krug, Matthew McBean, Ross Moore, Steven Roberts, Michael Robson, Tom Schell, Frederick Sheets, John Shepherd, Bette Smith, Fred Snaider, Richard Spencer, Wayne Taylor, Howard Wade, James Winklepleck, Kenneth Zahner, Peter Zebelean, III, John Endowment Promo Budget Miller, Bruce & Terri Historical Center Dixon, Donald Fuderer, George Hayes, Daniel & Yvonne

Wainwright, Ralph & Dorothy In Memory: Mark A. Ruggiero McCart, Connie In Memory: “Whitey” Howard Harris Light Cavalry Hayes, Daniel & Yvonne In Memory: Edwin Tom Hobbs Hobbs, Anne In Memory: Frank Schoch Early, Gene Property Projects Sheppard, Gary & Susan Range & Bridge Mantenance Wright, Edward Restroom Renovations Area 5 Koch, James Road Maintenance Spencer, Wayne Roads Wainwright, Ralph Sutlers Row Lights and Safety Stoneburner, Paul Tenderfoot BB Matches Harris Light Cavalry Hayes, Daniel & Yvonne Schell, Fred “Young Skirmisher 44th New York” Jordan, Wayne & Joy Thank you to all of our donors!

North-South Skirmish Association Board of Directors Meeting Saturday, January 27, 2024 Holiday Inn Chantilly-Dulles

Commander Kindle called the meeting to order at 8:00 a.m and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Deputy Commander Dave Cole offered the invocation.

Commander Kindle welcomed everyone to the meeting and introduced the newly elected region commanders – Dave Booz of the Chesapeake Region, Scott Harris of the Central Virginia Region, and Joe Plakis III of the Middle Atlantic Region.

National Adjutant Rick Clements called the roll and reported as present the following members of the Board of Directors: Charles Kindle, Jr., National Commander David Cole, National Deputy Commander Richard Clements, National Adjutant Bette Shepherd, National Paymaster Sharon Myers, Executive Secretary Douglas Walter, Allegheny Region Commander Rex Cockerham, Carolina Region Commander Scott Harris, Central Virginia Region Commander David Booz, Chesapeake Region Commander Charles Bondurant, Deep South Region Commander Joe Plakis III, Middle Atlantic Region Commander Eric Schuessler, Midwest Region Commander Lou Ruggiero, New England Region Commander Robert Kelley, Northeast Region Commander Edward Walters, Northwest Region Commander Walter Zdon, Potomac Region Commander E.R. Davenport, Tidewater Region Commander John Mark, Western Region Commander Absent was National Inspector General Michael Santarelli.

First order of business was approving the minutes from the previous meetings. Motion to approve the October 2023 Board Meeting minutes was made by Deputy Commander Cole and the motion was approved. Motion to approved the October 2023 Membership Meeting minutes was made by Deep South Commander Bondurant and that motion was approved.

Commander Kindle opened his report by stating there is much work to be done on the budget, but he has some suggestions on various ways to raise revenue. He apologized again for the tone taken at the October Membership meeting.

As 2024 is an election year for National Officers, Commander Kindle has appointed Mike Santarelli as this cycle’s Elections Chair. Mike is term limited as National Inspector General and is not running for another office.

Deputy Commander Cole thanked everyone for coming and requested that since we have much to accomplish, to please keep comments brief and to the point.

Since Inspector General Santarelli was absent from the meeting, Commander Kindle presented the IG report. During individual Skirmish Line Winter 2024 18

competition, 33 shoulder arms were inspected, all of which passed, and 11 revolvers, with 10 of those passing. During team matches, 180 shoulder arms and 30 revolvers were inspected, of which all the shoulder arms passed and only 2 revolvers failed.

The only action item requested in the IG report was that the Program Officer allow for more time in between relays of the Single Shot Breechloader match to permit the competitors to check/rehang targets and clean their firearms. Program Officer McDowell agreed to look at the Single Shot Breechloader team match script and make amendments as necessary.

Executive Secretary Sharon Myers referred to her report in the board packet. It seems there is continued confusion regarding the 16 Month Membership. This level of membership is defined in Article X, Section 1(E) of the N-SSA Bylaws.

“Any new member joining on or after September 1 of the skirmish year shall have his or her dues applied to the following skirmish year, but have all the rights and privileges of full membership during the balance of the skirmish year in which the individual joins. (e.g., a brand new member joins at the 122nd National. He or she will be issued a card for the balance of skirmish year 2010 and his or her dues will be paid for skirmish year 2011. (Effective October 1, 2010, amended 2019)” It is also clarified in Policy 2012.2: “For purposes of implementing Policy 2008.3, a “new member” is defined as an individual who has never received a competitor number of the current series beginning with 00001.” (Note: Policy 2008.3 deals with the New Member Initiation Fee.) This incentive is NOT for late members or former members who are rejoining.

There are also issues with Region Commanders signing off on applications to host regional skirmishes with glaring errors. It is the responsibility of the region commanders to ensure these forms are correct before they reach the Executive Secretary’s desk. As these forms are what guarantees our liability insurance, it is imperative that they are thoroughly reviewed before sending them on.

Judy Stoneburner and Carol White have graciously offered to continue spearheading our Memorial Brick program. The next order will be submitted in mid-March for placement before the Spring National.

Membership continues to grow, albeit at a slower pace than we all would like. 2022 ending membership was 2719, 2023 ending membership was 2758 – a net gain of 39. The goal is to reach our pre-covid number of 2824.

Currently there are only two (2) Unassigned Recruit members – one in the Midwest, and one in Carolina. The remaining six have been placed with various teams and are all actively skirmishing.

The following teams did not meet the participation requirement for 2023: 009-MA Union Valley Volunteers 020-MA 2nd New Jersey Volunteers 129-AL Knap’s Battery E, PA Light Artillery 203-MA 10th Virginia Volunteer Infantry The Union Valley Volunteers has already written to inform the N-SSA that they will be disbanding, effective December 1, 2023.

The region commander representing the 2nd New Jersey and the 10th Virginia has corresponded with them both and a path to participation has been laid out for 2024. The situation with Knap’s Battery will be addressed in the Rules report. At this point it is recommended that the Board take no action against any of these teams regarding standing in the N-SSA for Skirmish Year 2024.

Motion to take no action against the three teams provided they work with their region commander was made by Middle Atlantic Commander Plakis, amended with a motion by Tidewater Commander Davenport, and approved.

The 2nd Ohio Volunteer Infantry, after a year’s hiatus, is reactivating for 2024. I have received their team application, all required paperwork, and fees. As they are reactivating with one experienced member and four new members, they will be required to stand 19 Skirmish Line Winter 2024

inspection at the 149th National to ensure their uniforms and equipment meet the criteria of the N-SSA, and that they can participate safely. Deputy Commander Cole made the motion to accept the 2nd Ohio to probationary status. Motion approved.

The 1st Virginia Volunteers (Team 001) is requesting to transfer from the Tidewater Region to the Chesapeake Region. Motion to permit the transfer made by Tidewater Commander Davenport and approved.

John Venskoske, Jr. is asking for the Board’s approval to create the Fred Schell Trophy, to be awarded to the Senior Tenderfoot Youth First Place Team. If approved, it would be ready for the 149th National. Motion to approve the trophy creation was made by Tidewater Commander Davenport and carried.

New England Commander Ruggiero moved to approve the 2024 skirmish dates with changes presented. Motion approved.

National Adjutant Clements moved to approve the 150th National patch with the changes presented. Motion approved.

National Paymaster Bette Shepherd reported a review of the 2023 budget ended with a negative balance. While expenses came in under budget, donations are down to 2019 levels and while donation amounts are stable, most of the money had been earmarked for the Endowment Fund, taking away from General Fund donations, and shorting the income side. Dumpster rental fees are up, as are trash collection, pumpouts, and fuel surcharges.

During the discussion, Tidewater Commander Davenport brought up the point that while the Board is talking about dues, fees, and expenses, a portion of the membership is questioning the validity of the cost of the semiannual Board of Directors meetings. He stated that while in his job he uses Zoom, he also flies to locations for face to face meetings and the importance of that cannot be understated.

Motion to cap the Range Development Fund at $50,000 made by Tidewater Commander Davenport and the motion was approved.

The excess funds of $24,669 were moved to the general fund.

Northeast Region Commander Kelley moved to increase sutler rental fees to $1.30 per square foot. Motion approved.

Tidewater Commander Davenport moved to increase team fees for national skirmishes to $10/shooter. Motion approved.

Potomac Commander Zdon moved to increase Mortar entry fees at national skirmishes to $30. Motion approved.

Potomac Commander Zdon moved to increase Artillery entry fees at national skirmishes to $60. Motion approved.

Deputy Commander Cole moved to increase the range rent for the Wainwright Artillery Skirmish from $300 to $500. Motion approved.

It was approved to move some of the third party restricted funds for Marketing, Road Repair, Range Maintenance, and Playground to this year’s budget for their intended use.

Tidewater Commander Davenport moved to approve the 2024 budget as discussed. Motion approved.

After discussion of breaking down and categorizing all expenses, Deep South Commander Bondurant moved to appoint Matt Galloway of the 3rd US Regulars to the newly created staff position of Financial Oversight Officer. Motion was approved.

Bivouac Report - 1st Tennessee Vol. Inf. 195 CV made the request to extend their campsite (site 51, area 5) into Site 56, Area 5. Site 56 has been vacant for years. Tidewater Commander Davenport moved to approve the annexation.

Motion approved. Bivouac Officer Gorsky is requesting permission to straighten the boundary line in Area 5 between Sites 51 and 57. Motion to grant this permission made by Middle Atlantic Commander Plakis. Motion was approved. Deep South Commander Bondurant wished to applaud the efforts being made to remove derelict campers.

Skirmish Line Winter 2024 20

Costume Committee – Committee Chair Maryanne Faeth-Greketis is working on digitizing the stored records in the History Center so members and successive chairs will have ready access to the compiled information. Plans include expanding on the workshops/ sewing circles to include hands-on activities and displays from private collections along with changing how the Costume Competition is run to hopefully expand participation. Ms. Faeth-Greketis requested changes to Rule 35.8.2 to remove some titles as they are no longer utilized by the committee and to change the order of the remaining officers within the committee hierarchy.

Motion to approve these changes made by Deputy Commander Cole and the Board approved.

150th National Task Force – Civilian Chair Juanita Leisch-Jensen has plans to host a Silent Auction at the 149th National to raise money for the 150th presentations. She is looking for donations for the auction, which will be held at the Abe’s Offshoot sutler booth. A History Fair Tent will be set up in the area near the Executive Secretary’s office at the 150th for various displays and presentations to do with the period.

150th National Skirmish – Skirmish Director Charlie Bondurant reported that in addition to the patch that was approved with changes, he and his staff are planning a Twilight Artillery Cannonade after the Saturday awards ceremony which will consist of between 6 and 8 shots and will last approximately 45 minutes. Motion to approve the evening cannonade made by Tidewater Commander Davenport and passed.

Skirmish Director Bondurant also commented that we need to recalculate how we estimate and plan for manpower at nationals.

Tidewater Commander Davenport, who directed the 148th National, concurred stating that most of his staff did not show up until the Saturday and Sunday of the skirmish, when the hardest part of the work was already done. Program Officer McDowell will look into the situation.

Program Officer – For skirmish year 2026, Mr. McDowell is recommending that Joel Rogers of the Iredell Blues direct the 153rd National and Dave Holmes of the 14th Connecticut direct the 154th. Tidewater Commander Davenport made the motion to approve both skirmish director appointments and the motion passed.

Program Officer McDowell is also working with the directors of the 149th and 150th Nationals to see about additional manpower, and assessing the host rotation moving forward. He is doing individual participation counts to assess the peaks and valleys of range use.

Central Virginia Commander Harris brought up the issue of there not being enough time between relays during the Breechloader and Single Shot Breechloader matches to permit hanging/checking targets, replenishing ammunition, and cleaning the firearms.

Mr. McDowell will adjust the schedule and related scripts to give more needed time.

History Center Officer Gary Crawford asked that the regions appoint a liaison to look at their displays and refresh as needed.

Youth Coordinator Travis Keener reported that this past fall there were 7 junior teams and 4 senior teams, with 31 junior shooters and 15 senior shooters, meaning participation is growing. 20 of these shooters signed up on site. He is asking for permission to create a pellet pistol classification for the seniors and award medals. If approved, he’d like to order 12 of these arms. He is looking at purchasing a dozen each long and short Red Ryders to loan out for team competition. There is adequate money in the Youth Fund to pay for these. Commander Kindle will reach out to Frank Kapper to see if this can be facilitated.

Property Management Officer Jeff Hall reported that at this year’s June work skirmish the projects will be the painting of the barn and sutler buildings. It will be all roller and brush work, and he will need a minimum of 24 volunteers to complete the task. This includes repairing some of the battens on the barn. Northeast Commander Kelley asked about paved road repair. Property Manager Scanlan stated that this year’s paving will be from Memorial Park to the Pistol Range and if anything is left over it will go to maintenance.

As Provost Marshal Bob Klutas was absent from the meeting, the Executive Secretary presented his report. The region commanders received a copy of the listing of the derelict trailers that have been in the upper parking lot for an extended period of time. There are 21 campers in the lot, only 10 of which whose owner can be identified. Those that are not listed on the team’s camper survey forms or the identified trailers who belong to former members are to be contacted regarding the removal of those items from the parking lot.

21 Skirmish Line Winter 2024

The remaining 11 unidentifiable trailers will be moved to the back of the parking lot out of the way.

Statistics Officer Jeff Knauss was unable to attend, so Deputy Commander Cole spoke to the report. One item is to increase and bold the font on the individual target labels for ease of filing in the Stat House, which he is already working on with the IT Manager. The report also addressed the need to improve the lighting in the basement of the Veteran’s Building and deal with the abundance of chairs in the room.

Marketing Chair Chris DeFrancisci addressed his report. We are retaining our paid advertisements for the four largest Civil War publications. Additionally, we do not pay to be on the front covers of Civil War News and the Artilleryman after each national. The Endowment Fund contributions are continuing, but at a slower pace than desired.

Rules Officer report: Proposed Policy 2024.1 Two regions have non-shooting members who are willing to step up at the regional level to perform duties within their respective regions, but the Bylaws as currently written prohibit it.

The proposed policy will define National and Regional Officers as stated in Article X, Section 1(F) of the Bylaws.

“The prohibition of non-shooting members from holding regional or national office as stated in Article X, Section 1(F)(1) of the N-SSA Bylaws is confined to those regional and national offices as defined in Article III, Section 1 and Article VI, Section 3 of these same Bylaws. The offices defined are: National Commander, National Deputy Commander, National Adjutant, National Inspector General, RegionCommander, Region Deputy Commander, and Region Inspector.”

Motion to approve made by Northeast Commander Kelley. Motion passed with 1 against.

Amendment of Policy 2004.8 By amending this policy we will finally be giving participation credit to those teams who put forth the effort to host skirmishes.

Current Policy: “Participation under Article II, Section 4 of the Bylaws of the N-SSA means competition in a small arms company match or an artillery match with the required number of participating members.”

Proposed Policy: “Participation under Article II, Section 4 of the Bylaws of the N-SSA means competition in a small arms company match or an artillery match with the required number of participating members, or by hosting an official skirmish as defined in Rule 2.1.1.”

Motion to approve as proposed made by Middle Atlantic Commander Plakis. Motion passed with 2 against.

Amendment of Rules 5.4.2.a.1 and 6.4.2.a.1 Current Rules: “Pigeon Board – four birds per competitor.”

Proposed Rules: “Pigeon Board – three or four birds per competitor.”

History: The rulebook from 2003 had listed 3 or 4 per competitor. Subsequent rulebooks have it listed at only 4. Nowhere in any BOD Meeting minutes was a rule change ever proposed, it seems it was one of those rules that was mysteriously changed during one of the various rewrites.

Motion to approve the amendment made by Middle Atlantic Commander Plakis. Motion passed with 2 against.

Amendment of Rule 39.3.c While some of the laws to do with the possession and use of controlled substances have been relaxed in the various states’ codes, Skirmish Line Winter 2024 22

they are still illegal at the federal level. This amendment defines what is and is not acceptable while attending skirmishes.

Current Rule: “Use of controlled substances by any person at Fort Shenandoah or at any official skirmish, which violates the laws of the state concerned, is forbidden.”

Proposed Rule: “Use of any substance classified as Schedule I, or a Schedule II substance without a prescription, per the Federal Controlled Substance Act by any person at Fort Shenandoah or at any official skirmish is prohibited. Use of any controlled substance which violates the laws of the state concerned is also prohibited.”

Motion to accept the rule was made by New England Commander Ruggiero. With 9 in favor and 6 against, the motion passed.

Creation of Rule 28.7.4 Penalty for Firing a Cap before the Command There is no current rule addressing the early snapping of caps, and the issue arose during the musket match at the 148th National.

This rule would codify the penalty.

“In the event that a competitor snaps a cap before given the command, or after the command to cease fire, he/she must ground the firearm and step back from the line for the duration of the event.”

Motion to create Rule 28.7.4 made by Northeast Commander Kelley. With 9 in favor and 3 against, the motion passed.

After lunch, the Board reconvened in Executive Session.

Reconvening in open session, Deep South Commander Charlie Bondurant moved to approve the actions taken during Executive Session. Motion passed.

Around the Room JA/Lars Anderson – nothing.

AL/Doug Walter – Early Bird is coming up and hope to see you there.

DS/Charlie Bondurant – Briarfield skirmish is at the end of February.

MW/Eric Schuessler – The region has added a skirmish at Pleasant Hill in April.

TW/Mike Davenport – We’re sitting just $1600 short of $100,000 raised for fighting cancer.

NE/Bob Kelley – I’m surprised we’re done this early.

WR/John Mark – Enjoying the weather.

ES/Sherry Myers – nothing.

NA/Rick Clements – I’m good.

DC/Dave Cole – Thanks to everyone for the productive meeting.

NP/Bette Shepherd – Thanks to everyone for the input and interest in the numbers.

CH/Dave Booz – pass.

NW/Ed Walters – Glad we were able to balance the budget.

PT/ Walt (JR) Zdon – Stay safe everyone.

CV/Scott Harris – Thanks for trying for transparency.

EN/Lou Ruggiero – I’m good.

MA/Joe Plakis III – nothing.

CR/Rex Cockerham – nothing.

All business concluded, motion to adjourn made by Potomac Commander Zdon, and approved.

Adjourned 4:32.

23 Skirmish Line Winter 2024

Member of the Tidewater region of the N-SSA and fellow enthusiasts,

Greetings and howdy! If the groundhog Phil is correct, we should soon be out of winter’s clutches, and spring is on the way! Wow – where did the time go? It feels like we were just gearing up for the Christmas Holiday and making plans for the frozen months of January and February. I had quite a lengthy list of tasks to tackle over the winter break - mold bullets, take down several guns and go through them, get my gear in order for the spring skirmish campaign, and then, BLINK, it’s already March. Here in the South, that means the skirmish season kicks off at Fort Mahone, and the Doc Britt Range is gearing up for biweekly events. Where did all my spare time go? That’s the age-old question.

So, as the new season is upon us, get your gear ready, take a friend out and practice, find new skirmishers that you may know but who don’t know they are skirmishers yet - that hunting buddy, the guy at the sport shop, the kid involved in FFA or 4H programs - maybe a Boy or Girl scout you know who would enjoy our particular and unique sport. Share your gear and guns and get them out to the range - let them experience black powder at its zenith of utilization with the tools we use to punch holes in pigeons, tiles, and paper. You will make a friend for life. Don’t wait for a recruiting event or a shoot - go now, grab your friend, and have fun, and so will they!

I am eagerly looking forward to rekindling old friendships and making new ones this season. Our sport needs your help and support. Pay particular attention to the messages around inflation, the cost to maintain the Fort, and all the activities the N-SSA is involved in. The costs of everything have increased, but this sport is still the best BANG for your hard-earned dollars. I will challenge anyone to tell me where else you can have the experiences we embrace in the N-SSA, for the money we spend. History, shooting competition, Living History, camaraderie, making friends, camping - the benefits are many to list. No matter if you are in Northern Michigan, Texas, Florida, Colorado, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, or in the Northeast or South - our Fort Shenandoah is a jewel that is hard to beat. So, make the trip to visit the fort or a local event - you won’t regret it. I also encourage the other Regional Commanders to make use of this forum as a way to connect with our teams and supporters.

See you on the Skirmish Line Respectfully, E. R Mike Davenport,5494 Dismal Swamp Rangers Tidewater Region “Do the best you can.”

One Pot French Onion Soup INGREDIENTS • • • • •

12 3/4-inch-thick French baguette slices 1/4 cup unsalted butter 3 pounds sweet onions, sliced 3 cloves garlic, minced 1/3 cup dry white wine

• • • • • • •

6 cups beef stock 4 sprigs fresh thyme 2 bay leaves 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat oven to broil.

2. Place baguette slices onto a baking sheet. Place into oven and broil until golden brown on both sides, about 1-2 minutes per side; set aside.

3. Melt butter in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium high heat. Add onions, and cook, stirring often, until deep golden brown and caramelized, about 30-40 minutes.* Stir in garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.

4. Stir in wine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the braiser.

5. Stir in beef stock, thyme and bay leaves. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until slightly reduced, about 15-20 minutes. Remove and discard thyme sprigs and bay leaves.

6. Stir in balsamic vinegar; season with salt and pepper, to taste.

7. Top with baguette slices to cover the surface of the soup completely; sprinkle with cheeses.

8. Place into oven and broil until golden brown and cheeses have melted; about 3-5 minutes.

9. Serve immediately. *If your onions start to burn when cooking reduce heat and add a little water ~ Editor

Skirmish Line Winter 2024 24

The N-SSA Year in Review – 2023 Mark Humphries Black Powder Maniac Shooter YouTube Channel Bucket list fulfilled!! Since hearing about the N-SSA 3 years ago, the biggest item on my bucket list was to attend the N-SSA shoot in Virginia. My bucket list was fulfilled attending the Spring Shoot 2023, however, as with most awesome experiences, once is never enough. Recently, my bride Missy and I had the opportunity to attend our second N-SSA event, the Fall National Shoot in October 2023. We were overwhelmed with all the different activities going on around the grounds of Fort Shenandoah during the Spring Shoot. We made it a priority to attend the Fall Shoot with ALL our video cameras fully charged up!

The Black Powder Maniac Shooter YouTube Channel was born in 2016. The goal is to promote the hobby of black powder shooting. The BPMS YouTube Channel is designed to be entertaining, educational and just plain fun to watch. It tackles the use of smoothbores, flintlock rifles, Civil War rifles, and cartridge black powder guns. It also includes a variety of Trade Shows, tips, tricks, and “How To” videos to make your shooting experience better.

New shooters are introduced to the black powder hobby through fun playlists such as Flintlock Female Fun, 1780’s trekking videos and black powder shooting with different clubs in Texas, Missouri, Virginia, Tennessee, Ohio, Kentucky and Pennsylvania.

Being mostly a roundball shooter using flintlock rifles, the N-SSA events are a new thrill for me. Upon arriving at the Fort Shenandoah grounds in 2023, we were greeted by Eddie Davenport. His knowledge and enthusiasm of the N-SSA and Fort Shenandoah was beneficial and contagious! We couldn’t wait to get the video cameras fired up to film shooting matches of the entire weekend. One camera focused on small arms shooting and the second camera focused on mortar and cannons. So much action was filmed, the memory cards were changed several times over the weekend!

Members of the N-SSA really impressed us with their hospitality and patience. Robert and Trent of the 30th Virginia Sharpshooter Battalion, Dave with the Palmetto Sharpshooters, Eddie with Hanover Greys and cannon man Kenny answered all questions regarding match requirements. This was my first opportunity to experience cannon and mortar matches. I gained a deeper respect for those soldiers using such weapons during the American Civil War. There were so many activities occurring, it was impossible to catch all the action in the four videos on the BPMS channel. Special “THANK YOU!” to Sherrie, Eddie, Mike, Robert, Trent, Chris, Bruce, Troy and others for their assistance during these awesome events.

Looking forward to attending future N-SSA events. The countdown for 2024 has begun!!!! See you there……

25 Skirmish Line Winter 2024

From Fort Shenandoah to Hollywood

By Bruce W. Miller As we approach the 150th National this fall and the 75th Anniversary of the N-SSA next year, it’s a fitting time to reminisce about some intriguing events. As the Public Information Officer for three decades, I’ve had my fair share of memorable encounters with the media. Allow me to share one of my favorites.

Back in 2002, Electric Collodion Pictures, a feature film company, approached us. Understanding that the sounds of reenactors’ small arms and artillery fire differ significantly from theirs—ours being actual bullets while they shoot blanks—they sought to enhance the realism of their upcoming production by capturing sound at our national competition.

With the approval of our commander and the skirmish director, sound engineers from California descended upon the fort. They strategically positioned remote microphones in front of the firing line, both at five yards and 25 yards for the musket match, and varied distances for the artillery match. The result? The sound they recorded quite literally “blew them away.”

So, the next time you watch “Gods and Generals,” take note: while you’re witnessing epic battle scenes staged by reenactors, the thunderous sound you hear is courtesy of the N-SSA!

LEFT: Musket Match Recording.

RIght: Artillery Sound Recording

Skirmish Line Winter 2024 26

Preserving our heritage, history, and our beloved sport is the goal of the Endowment Fund. Whether you join the Advance Guard with a membership donation or simply donate any amount and become an Endowment supporter, you help grow the Endowment and ensure the N-SSA will endure for decades to come. Thank these people who have supported the effort to preserve the N-SSA!

Advance Guard Founders (Donors who contributed $2000)

Advance Guard Conditional Donors (Full membership through monthly donations)

eritage, history, and our beloved is the goal of Michael Catalbiano John Zebelleansport III

Fund. Whether join the Advance Chris Deyou Francisci Joseph Budzynski Guard with a

ation or simply amount and become an Bruce &donate Terri Miller any Jim Burgess

Kenneth Winklepleck Peter Zahner James Moreland Matthew Krug Howard Taylor

porter, you help grow the Glenn Endowment and ensure the Wayne Jordan Gravatt John to H. Shepherd Jr. Thank John W Wellsthese Jr. e for decades come. people who have Advance Guard Supporting Donors Laurence Funk James D. Wood fort to preserve the N-SSA! (One-time donations in support of the Endowment) William Heur Thomas Cahoon Barbara Brancoli John Sheets Advance MichaelGuard Maroney Founders Ross McBean (Donors who contributed $2000) Steve Hammond Daniel & Karen Gibson John Thomas Frank Easterling Michael Catalbiano John Zebellean III David Cole James Burgess Michael Riordan Daniel & Karen Dietze Chris De Francisci Joseph Budzynski Eugene Egan Walter Krietler Bruce & Terri Miller Jim Burgess Tom Robson Frederick Schell Wayne Jordan Gravatt Johannes Hacker GlennFrank Kapper James E. Wade Richard Snyder John H. Shepherd John W Jr. Jeff Hall Jr. BetteWells Shepherd Laurence Funk James D. Wood M. D. Roberts William Heizer Mark Miller Anonymous William Heur Thomas Cahoon Michael Maroney Ross McBean John Thomas Frank Easterling David Cole James Burgess Eugene Egan Walter Krietler Consider Joining those who have supported building the Endowment Fund!

Johannes Hacker Frank Kapper Jeff Hall Bette Shepherd Make all donations payable to: N-SSA Endowment Fund Mark Miller Anonymous

Mail donation(s) to:

N-SSA Endowment Fund c/o Wayne Jordan, 8606 Eagle Glen Terrace Fairfax Station, VA 22039

27 Skirmish Line Winter 2024

Thank You to Our Advertisers!

Muzzle Blasts

3

Walk the Talk America

4

Single Shot Exchange

4

Larry J Flees

5

Schuetzen Black Powder

6

Doc’s Place

11

Back Creek Gun Shop

14

Davide Pedersoli

Back Cover

Classified ad: Interior only $0.60 cents per word (Minimum 15 words)

Interested in advertising in the Skirmish Line?

Contact us at nssaeditor@gmail.com We publish 4 times a year and reach thousands of potential customers Skirmish Line Winter 2024 28

NORTH-SOUTH SKIRMISH ASSOCIATION 2024 National Officer Nomination Form

The Chairman of the Nominating Committee must receive this completed nomination form no later than May 1, 2024, for your candidate to be listed on the slate presented to the Membership at the May 2024 meeting. All forms must be mailed to: Mike J. Santarelli 226 Paxson Ave. Glenside, PA 19038-4612 1stpacavalry@gmail.com

The members of (Unit name and seniority #) ___ ___________ Nominate (Candidate name and competitor #) _ ______________ For the office of: Commander

Deputy Commander ______

Adjutant ________ Inspector General ________ Signature of Team Officer __________________________________________________ I accept the nomination. (Candidate Signature) __________________________________

CANDIDATE'S QUALIFICATIONS:

PRIOR SERVICE TO N-SSA:

.

PERSONAL BACKGROUND INFORMATION:

CANDIDATE'S STATEMENT:

Use additional sheets if necessary. Please include a recent photograph of the candidate with this nomination. A complete slate of candidates for office will appear in the summer issue of the Skirmish Line and will be posted on the N-SSA Bulletin Board.

29 Skirmish Line Winter 2024

**ANNOUNCEMENT** Work Skirmish Saturday, June 15, 2024 Fort Shenandoah, Virginia The 2024 National Work Skirmish will be held on June 15. We have plenty of work so come on out! This year’s Work Skirmish will be devoted to sprucing up Fort Shenandoah in anticipation of the 150th National Skirmish.

We plan to paint the Barn and Sutler’s Row. In order to do this in one day we need 12 painters for each. Come prepared to paint! We will be using rollers and brushes. Spray equipment will not work for these projects.

All teams with members who would like to volunteer please respond to Jeff Hall at jchall23.jh@gmail.com, and/or Tim Scanlan at nssapropertymgr@aol.com so we can properly plan the work, obtain the required material, and provide lunch.

Thanks for your help.

Jeff Hall Property Management Staff Officer

Skirmish Line Winter 2024 30

The Magazine of the North-South Skirmish Association, Inc.

31 Skirmish Line Winter 2024