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 ~ Lis Cole
Photo Layouts by - Allissa Weber
Contributing Photographers ~ Niki Bethke, Walt ‘JR’ Zdon, 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 Text and images may not be published separately, in hard copy or electronically, without the expressed written permission of their owner(s).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.
Welcome to all New Recruits Fall 2025
North-South Skirmish Association National Commanders
*John Gilmer 1956-1958
*James Waters 1959-1962
*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 -2024
Dave Cole 2025
Nmlra Member Benefits
Muzzle Blasts
Members of the NMLRA receive Muzzle Blasts, our monthly membership publication devoted to all aspects of the muzzleloading sport.
Scholarship Program
The NMLRA sponsors a scholarship program for its members and their dependents.
National Competitions
With your NMLRA membership card, you have the opportunity to attend two national championship matches in centrally located Friendship, Indiana.
Muzzleloading Education
Members of the NMLRA can take advantage of the Association’s Muzzleloading Education Program
Charter Clubs
The NMLRA has over three hundred muzzleloading charter clubs across the country, each with its own schedule of events and range times.
National Range
The Walter Cline National Range in Friendship, Indiana, is open to NMLRA members who wish to shoot–whether it be for a day or a weekend camping facilities are available at the range.
Territorial Competitions
NMLRA-sponsored territorial matches are held throughout the United States, and your NMLRA membership card allows you to participate in these events.
r Sign me up! Annual membership fee of $75.00 ($95.00 in U.S. funds for addresses outside the United States). Send me the monthly membership magazine Muzzle Blasts, and full membership credentials.
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Mail to: NMLRA Membership Dept., PO Box 67, Friendship, IN 47021 OR call 812.432.2670 • Sign up online at: www.nmlra.org E-mail: lbrown@nmlra.org for more information.
NoteFromtheeditor
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. Winter 2026 Publication Submission Deadline February 15th
the FiriNg LiNe
Hello everyone,
Another skirmish season has come to a close, and I hope you’re heading into the quieter months with good memories, new milestones, and a renewed appreciation for what makes this organization special. The Fall Nationals were a strong finish to the year, and it was great seeing so many of you back at Fort Shenandoah.
On a personal note, I marked another birthday at the Fort this year, and I want to thank those who stopped by to share a moment, a joke, or just a quick “happy birthday.” Celebrating it surrounded by friends, teammates, and the N-SSA family is something I never take for granted.
This issue’s cover features the winners of the 152nd National Skirmish Musket Match: the 110th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Company A. It’s always an honor to highlight the teams who rise to the top, and I’m excited to showcase their accomplishment right on the front page.
As a reminder, each issue includes the upcoming deadlines for article submissions. Please keep an eye on those dates so you can plan ahead. And don’t forget—N-SSA members can now receive payment for accepted articles. If you’ve been considering writing something, whether it’s historical research, a technical piece, team insights, or coverage of your region, I’d love to see what you have. Reach out, share your ideas, and let’s get more member voices into these pages.
Thank you all for a great season and for the camaraderie, sportsmanship, and passion you bring to the line. Until next time keep your powder dry and your shot’s X’s Eddie Davenport
Editor-in-Chief, The Skirmish Line Hannover Grays (11366V)
From the office of the
National Commander
This has been one amazing year for me. The N-SSA is an amazing place and I enjoy the hustle and bustle of leading it. From the flood during the 151 st Nationals to the perfect weather of the 152 nd , it has been an honor to lead this Association.
As with all groups there are still some rough spots, and if we keep working together, we can smooth those out and make it a better association. As an organization, we need to keep passing down the “secrets and hints” from one generation to another and from experienced veterans to the new skirmishers. I am not going to bring up the “holy wars” of lube, but we all have things that we feel work well. Pass those ideas and experiences to new skirmishers. Teach them how to properly clean and create loads for their firearms. Check with them to see if they need help with casting, sizing, preparation, and other things that make it easier for all of us and with less time dealing with a fouled firearm on the line.
Over the winter, keep casting, practicing and getting ready for a new skirmish season. Let’s make this spring season better than the last (weather not withstanding!!!!)
Dave Cole National Commander
Dave
Deputy National Commander
Once again, another skirmish season has come to an end. For many, the fall National Skirmish marks the end of the season and we could not have had better weather conditions over the span of a week at the fort. Kudos go out to every member of the host units, their family members, and friends who made everything flow easily. Well Done!
It seems to me, every year passes more quickly than the previous one. By the time you read this article, the approaching holidays will be upon us and each of us will probably have already begun our individual preparations for next year, These might include equipment inspection/replacement, lead collection & smelting, or winterizing trailers. Making a list & checking it twice has a completely different interpretation to a skirmisher!
Since the publication of my last article, the members of the Finance Committee interviewed several qualified Financial Advisor firms and, based upon prepared selection criteria, recommendations were submitted to the Board of Directors. Following the presentation and discussion, the Board selected the firm deemed best suited to make investments on behalf of the N-SSA. I’m happy to report the selection and investment efforts have shown positive growth. The Financial Advisor supporting us will attend the Board meeting in January and will provide us with an updated financial overview. Obviously, the goal of this effort is to enhance the overall financial health of the N-SSA and eliminate any further discussions or thoughts of a necessary dues increase.
Until we meet again at Fort Shenandoah or at the Board meetings in 2026, I wish everyone good health & I look forward to seeing you again soon.
Rick
Rick Clements Deputy National Commander
North-South Skirmish Association, Inc.
Board of Directors Meeting
Thursday, October 2, 2026
Fort Shenandoah, VA
Commander Cole called the meeting to order at 7:30 and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Deputy Commander Clements led the invocation.
National Adjutant Erick Shaw called the roll and reported as present the following members of the Board of Directors:
David Cole, National Commander
Richard Clements, National Deputy Commander
Erick Shaw, National Adjutant
John Defilippi, Inspector General
Bette Shepherd, National Paymaster
Sharon Myers, Executive Secretary
Douglas Walter, Allegheny Region Commander
Tom Wareham, Carolina Region Commander
Joe Heatwole, Central Virginia Region Commander
David Booz, Chesapeake Region Commander
Lanier Harrison, Deep South Region Commander
Joseph Plakis III, Middle Atlantic Region Commander
Eric Schuessler, Midwest Region Commander
Peter Hughes, New England Region Deputy Commander
Mark Killeen, Northeast Region Commander
Edward Walters, Northwest Region Commander
Walter Zdon, Jr., Potomac Region Commander
E.R. Mike Davenport, Tidewater Region Commander
John Mark, Western Region Commander
Past Commander Chuck Kindle was absent.
Commander’s Comments
Dave Cole opened his remarks by stating there are three bylaws changes/additions to be voted on by the membership, and he hoped that the region commanders passed down the information using the chain of command.
He also informed those present that we will be going back to the old way of assigning positions at nationals, keeping A-B-C together to the best of our ability. While the current way of
assigning positions works well for line judges and safety officers, it’s spreading teams out too far. This will go into effect beginning with the 153 rd National.
Deputy Commander
Rick Clements reported that in the wake of the September Zoom meeting we’ve made some progress. paperwork is in process with Diamond Financial, and hopefully by the January board meeting we will be able to show not only the investments, but growth in those investments as well. Scott, our financial advisor, will be at the January meeting to answer any questions.
Inspector General
John Defilippi stated that he has five regional inspectors and one assistant national inspector working the ranges. Overall things have been pretty good. He thanked the team commanders who are policing their own units. The Corps is offering courtesy inspections to anyone requesting one and this gives teams and individuals to sort out any problems before the matches.
Dave Cole reminded the audience that all sighted smoothbores must have a Small Arms approval card, and that uniforms must be worn during all matches on Friday.
Executive Secretary
Sherry Myers informed those present that the renewal forms for Skirmish Year 2026 are in the folders to be handed out at the Friday Membership Meeting. She also requested that the region commanders of those holding regional elections in 2025 please forward the results to her. With Scott Harris’ passing, Commander Cole is requesting that all board members wear a black armband while in uniform, and Sherry has a supply of them in the Executive Secretary’s office.
The Executive Secretary has been notified that Wythe Rifles (019 -TW) will be merging into the 1st MD Infantry (025-PT) and has requested their adjacent campsites also merge.
Lucas’ Battalion, 15th SC Heavy Artillery will be standing inspection Friday morning at 10:00. The members of the board will meet at the base of the Main Tower at 7:30 a.m. Sunday to discuss and vote on their permanent membership.
Commander Cole is requesting that the members of the board stay after the vote to present arms to those parading in to the ready area.
Paymaster
Bette Shepherd presented the interim Paymaster’s report. She stated that we are coming in under budget on a number of items, but also under budget on income, primarily donations. As of now, we have approximately 9 months of unrestricted cash on hand.
Skirmish Director
Jaime Conner being absent, Commander Cole reported that the skirmish is going well and things are running smoothly.
Provost
Bruce Allen reported that things are running smoothly, but they could use a few more people in the low areas as most of the Provost Guard camps on top of the hill. He is also looking at a few things to help Provost run better. Due to an event, he has not been able to work on the Emergency and Evacuation Plan.
Property Manager
Tim Scanlan informed those present that the money from the 151 st Individuals has been used to purchase approximately 92 tons of gravel that has been spread around the right side of the team parking areas, around the rifle racks , near the far right subtower, and in the wet area near the Stat House. We are trying to show the membership that the money was spent in a positive way. The exit road work has not been completed and will not be until the end of October, so the money allocated for that has not been spent yet.
Program Officer
George McDowell stated that with one of the 153 rd’s teams folding at the end of this year, after speaking with Skirmish Director Joel Rogers there will be no need to move a team up to fill the vacancies left. Once Lucas’ Battalion is voted to membership, they will be plugged in to the host rotation.
The board went into Executive Session at 7:55 , and reconvened in Open Session at 8:0 6
The board voted to approve actions taken during Executive Session after motion by Erick Shaw.
Joe Plakis inquired if there was any way the minutes from the board meetings can be disseminated earlier.
The board recessed at 8:08 p.m.
Sunday, October 5, Base of the Main Tower
Lucas’ Battalion, 15 th SC Heavy Artillery was voted to full N -SSA membership after motion by Carolina Commander Tom Wareham.
North-South Skirmish Association, Inc.
Membership Meeting
Friday, October 3, 2025
Fort Shenandoah
Commander Cole called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. and reviewed the rules of engagement.
He informed the membership of the search for a financial advisor, the recommendations of the Search Committee and that a Zoom meeting was held in September to take the vote. We have engaged Diamond Wealth Advisors of Falls Church to review our finances and make recommendations.
Commander Cole read the three proposed amendments/additions to the bylaws. 102 votes are needed to pass.
1. Amendment to Article IV, Section 4
“The Board of Directors shall approve annual budgets. Over-budget item expenditures shall require approval by the Board or the Membership as indicated:
1. Over-budget item expenditures exceeding $500 but less than $3000 shall require approval by the Board of Directors.
2. Over-budget item expenditures exceeding $3000 shall require approval by the Membership.
The Board shall cause an annual review or audit of Association financial records to be conducted.”
Votes in Favor: 143
2. Article VI, Section 11 (new)
Votes Against: 20
Status: Passed
“When a Region’s numbers fall to five (5) member organizations, the Region commander shall be required to provide regular updates to the Board. This update shall include what efforts the region is making to recruit new member organizations and what assistance they may require from the national organization.”
Votes in Favor: 82
3. Article VI, Section 12 (new)
Votes Against: 67 Status: Failed
“The Board of Directors shall have the authority to dissolve a region if that Region membership falls below four (4) member organizations.
The Board may exercise discretion and allow a one (1) year grace period for that Region to recruit new member organizations to fill its ranks.
The remaining member organizations of the dissolved region shall have a period of ninety (90) days after notification to work with the other N-SSA Regions to determine to which existing region the remaining member organizations shall transfer. If a member
organization has not notified the Board of which region they will be moving to at the end of the allotted ninety (90) day period, the Board shall assign them to a new Region with the consent of that member organization.”
Votes in Favor: 78 Votes Against: 86
Status: Failed
A Point of Order was raised when Commander Cole announced that a show of hands would be used to determine the votes. It was stated that a number of teams filled out the ballots then left the meeting. After motion by the 21st Michigan, it was approved that the paper ballots will be used.
Inspector General John Defilippi reported that the IG Corps has inspected around 200 firearms so far this weekend with only a handful of failures. He thanked the team commanders for their diligence. There is a bit of confusion on sighted smoothbores. Any smoothbore with a rear sight must have been inspected and approved by the Small Arms Committee.
Paymaster Bette Shepherd presented the financial report showing the forecasted expenses to be under budget by approximately $4000, with projected revenues coming in under budget as well. As of now we have approximately nine months of unrestricted cash available.
Based on year-to-date averages for electricity usage, Bette is estimating that we will be over budget by about $1700, over the level that would trigger membership approval. Motion to approve the additional expenditure was made by the 4th Kentucky Cavalry and passed with 2 no votes.
The question of pumpouts was raised, asking if these were done on a monthly basis. These are done when necessary. As for trash collection, we rent the dumpster on a monthly basis, then they are called when full for pick up.
Skirmish Director Jaime Conner thanked everyone for coming out and asked everyone to thank the staff for their hard work.
Provost Marshal Bruce Allen thanked everyone for being kind and courteous, but reminded them that a Team Parking pass does not permit you to park anywhere. If you are caught parking in a team’s campsite that is not your own, you will be ticketed.
Safety Officer Doug Walter spoke about his responsibilities in training the range and ordnance staff every national along with some observations. Over the past two years, the following incidents have taken place:
• A member double-thumbing the ball on his smoothbore. The balls were so tight he had to push down on them just to get them started.
• A member who was having trouble chambering a round into his Smith Carbine. He stuck the muzzle in the dirt to gain enough leverage to push the round into the breech. The next volley, he stuck the muzzle on his foot so he could load it.
• Robert Paul of the 1st Valley Rangers spoke about muzzle awareness. He is seeing people not watching where the muzzle of their firearm is when they turn to speak to someone.
Doug Walter reminded the team commanders that it is their responsibility to ensure their members know basic firearm safety before stepping onto the firing line. He informed them of the Safety Officer Manual, a booklet handed out to all range personnel at each national that is available on our website.
On the Endowment, Bruce Miller stated that since the September 2022 launch of the Advance Guard, we now have 33 full members and 63 donors who have collectively donated over $100,000. Chris DeFrancisci spoke to the Endowment Fund being a perpetual fund and that the principal cannot be spent.
Wayne Jordan addressed that donations can be made for specific projects, such as bathrooms, and he can spearhead donation requests for these needs.
Open Forum
Colin Scanlan – This national’s work skirmish was a bit shorthanded, but we were done on Saturday quicker than ever before. This is a phenomenal crew and please thank them if you can.
Tom Wiegand – Motion to move revolver team matches back to 25 yards. Commander Cole stated that as this was a rules change, it would need to go through the rules process.
Lynn Warner – Questioned why, when the policy states that rules not of an emergency nature do not take effect until March 1, the change to the revolver match distance took effect at this national. She also raised the issue of information dissemination via the minutes and that the updated rules were not uploaded to the website.
Bob Propst – Since every region commander’s notes are different, maybe the Executive Secretary or the National Adjutant should put out a synopsis after each meeting to present a unified picture of what went on.
Anna Schneeman – Thanked everyone for helping with the playground project. She is continuing to gather donations and is hoping to raise enough to replace the swings and other things. Mike Linton and Mike Davenport also spoke about the playground and the work being done.
The staffs of the 153rd, 154th, and 155th Nationals will meet in various spots in the barn.
Meeting adjourned 8:31 p.m.
National Officers
North-South Skirmish Association Contact List
NATIONAL COMMANDER
COLE84_89@VERIZON.NET
NATIONAL DEPUTY COMMANDER
NATIONAL ADJUTANT
NATIONAL INSPECTOR GENERAL
PAST NATIONAL COMMANDER
NATIONAL PAYMASTER
EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
EXSECNSSA@GMAIL.COM
Region Commanders & Inspectors
AL REGION COMMANDER
CH REGION COMMANDER
CR REGION COMMANDER
CV REGION COMMANDER
DS REGION COMMANDER
EN REGION COMMANDER
MA REGION COMMANDER
MW REGION COMMANDER
NE REGION COMMANDER
NW REGION COMMANDER
PT REGION COMMANDER
TW REGION COMMANDER
WR REGION COMMANDER
Staff Officers & Committee Chairs
ARTILLERY OFFICER
ASST SMALL ARMS OFFICER
BIVOUAC OFFICER
CORPORATE RELATIONS OFFICER
DATA MANAGER
HISTORY CENTER OFFICER
INSURANCE OFFICER
IT/DATABASE ADMINISTRATOR
JUDGE ADVOCATE/SOLICITOR
LOGISTICS OFFICER
MEDICAL LIAISON OFFICER
NRA LIAISON OFFICER
ORDNANCE OFFICER
PHOTOGRAPHY OFFICER
DAVID COLE
RICHARD H CLEMENTS
ERICK SHAW
JOHN DEFILIPPI
CHARLES L KINDLE JR
BETTE ANN SHEPHERD
703-362-7836
SHARON A MYERS 724-255-5830
DOUGLAS K WALTER
DAVID T BOOZ
THOMAS E WAREHAM
ROBERT PAUL HICKS
LANIER A HARRISON JR
LOUIS RUGGIERO
JOSEPH PLAKIS III
ERIC S SCHUESSLER
MARK R KILLEEN
EDWARD WALTERS
WALTER J ZDON JR
E.R. MIKE DAVENPORT
JOHN P MARK
ROBERT T WEST
MICHAEL J SANTARELLI
ROBERT E GORSKY
WALTER M KREITLER
STEVEN SHELDON
GARY J CRAWFORD
JASON M REXRODE
RICHARD E WOOD
LARS E ANDERSON
TIMOTHY D SCANLAN
JOHN VENSKOSKE SR
CRAIG STANLEY
JOHN VENSKOSKE SR
LISBETH A COLE
PROGRAM OFFICER
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
PROPERTY MANAGER
PROTOCOL OFFICER
PROVOST MARSHAL
PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER
RANGE OFFICER
RECRUITING COORDINATOR
REGISTRATION OFFICER
REVOLVER RANGE OFFICER
RULES OFFICER
SAFETY OFFICER
SIGNAL OFFICER
SKIRMISH LINE EDITOR
SMALL ARMS OFFICER
SUTLER OFFICER
Committee Chairpersons
AWARDS COMMITTEE CHAIR
CHARITABLE GIVING COMMITTEE
COMMUNITY RELATIONS COMMITTEE
COSTUME COMMITTEE CHAIR
FINANCE COMMITTEE CHAIR
HISTORY & EDUCATION COMMITTEE
INT’L MUZZLELOADING COMMITTEE
LONG RANGE PLANNING COMMITTEE
MARKETING COMMITTEE CHAIR
PERSONNEL REVIEW COMMITTEE
UNIFORM COMMITTEE CHAIR
VETERANS COMMITTEE CHAIR
YOUTH COMMITTEE CO-CHAIR
YOUTH COMMITTEE CO-CHAIR
GEORGE F MCDOWELL
MARK A FLEET
TIMOTHY D SCANLAN
BRANDON S BOWSER
BRUCE A ALLEN
BRUCE W MILLER
JEFFREY R COX
CHRISTOPHER DAVID KRECIDLO
JOHN L GASKILL
CHRIS M DEFRANCISCI
SHARON A MYERS
DOUGLAS K WALTER
DAVID COLE
EDDIE DAVENPORT III
JOHN D HOLLAND JR
PAUL D STONEBURNER
NANCY C CROCKETT
WAYNE V JORDAN
GARY J CRAWFORD
MARYANNE FAETH-GREKETIS
MATTHEW A GALLOWAY
JOHN P ZEBELEAN III
EDWARD W SCHNEEMAN
EDWIN THOMPSON
CHRIS M DEFRANCISCI
CARLTON LAYNE
MARK E LATHAM
ROBERT E BETHKE
TRAVIS J KEENER
CASEY C KEENER
Contact information available through the website or by contacting the Executive Sec-
Suppor t the N -SSA Your Donations Matter
Wayne Jordan, Charitable Giving Committee
Friends and Fellow Skirmishers,
Another year of skirmishing has come to an end. Hopefully, 2025 has been a good year for you and your families. Remember, the N-SSA is a 501 c 3 tax deductible nonprofit . Hundreds of our members who have been contributing in recent years have done so due to the significance of the N-SSA in their lives and, in many cases, their family members as well.
Will You Make a Donation to the N-SSA this Year?
JOIN THE SOCIETY OF COLOR BEARERS - Our modest annual dues have been unchanged for over 10 years now, and your donations have been a big part of the reason we’ve been able to hold the line this long. I understand that everyone’s personal situation is different and it is not prudent for everyone to contribute their hard earned money in this manner. But, for those of you who can, please consider donating this year and becoming a member of our Society of Color Bearers.
Giving Categories
Private – up to $99.99 Sergeant - $500 – 999 Ordnance Sergeant - $2500 -4999
Bugler - $100 – 249
First Sergeant - $1000 – 2499 Sergeant Major - $5000 and up Corporal - $250 – 499 Advance Guard Endowment (full membership) - $2000 and up
Special Projects to be Funded
Latrine Fund - We have several projects that we would like to build up funds for. Everyone who comes to Ft Shenandoah wants to use clean and pleasant bathroom facilities. Some teams , or groups of teams, have donated their labor to Adopt-A-Bathroom and fix them up inside and/or outside. We hope more volunteers will step up and want to have the funds ready for them to use to replace fixtures, buy landscaping materials, etc.
History Center and Museum – Hopefully you’ve visited this building during a National. It has been renovated, but the windows are old and in bad shap e. We need $5000 (probably more) to replace them with new double pane windows. Labor to install will be donated.
Recruiting Materials – If there is any topic of conversation around campfires , it is about recruiting new members. The N-SSA has some materials that are used in gun show booths by some of our members, but there is always a need for more and better displays, videos, etc. Possibly multiple recruiting sets can be circulated around as people have opportunities to use them.
Ways to Donate
USE YOUR IRA ACCOUNT – If you are age 70 ½ you can give any amount up to $108,000 per year directly from your IRA to any eligible nonprofit (s) and avoid income taxes on those funds
APPRECIATED STOCKS, ETFs, AND MUTUAL FUNDS – This is another great program that Congress has granted us. If you bought a stock, mutual fund, or other investment in the past that has gone up in value by a lot, you can donate it directly to an eligible nonprofit. The benefit is that you pay no taxes whatsoever on the appreciation , and the whole amount is tax deductible.
YOUR EMPLOYER – Many employers, mostly large companies, will match donations that their employees make to eligible nonprofits. Sometimes they will make outright grants to organizations that their employees participate in, even after they have retired.
TEAM DONATIONS – Several teams have pooled their money and donated to the N -SSA. Such a donation can be designated for the General Fund, the Endowment Fund, or other purpose.
PERIODIC PAYMENTS – If you are more comfortable with periodic donations instead of a larger lump sum, you can set up a regular payment through your bank or broker’s Bill Pay system .
JOIN THE ADVANCE GUARD ENDOWMENT FUND - Help to ensure the long term future of the NSSA. Our balance in this endowment fund is over $100,000 already. It is being invested and the principal will not be touched .
ESTATE PLANNING, WILLS, TRUSTS, AND LIFE INSURANCE – The N-SSA can be designated as the beneficiary of part or all of your life insurance, annuity, IRA, or any other assets. You can designate percentages, numbers of shares, or dollar values. If you have any questions feel free to contact me at wvjordan@aol.com, or at 703-407-2445.
Wayne Jordan
N-SSA Charitable Giving Committ ee
DONATE DIGITALLY BY USING OUR QR CODE
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 name, mailing address, and email.
OR SEND IN A CHECK USING THE FORM BELOW. Please send your donation to: N-SSA , c/o Wayne Jordan, Charitable Donations Committee, 8606 Eagle Glen Terrace, Fairfax Station, Va 22039 . Any questions can be directed to me at wvjordan@aol.com or 703-407-2445
Name Amount of donation__________
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.
North-South Skirmish Association, Inc.
Board of Directors Meeting
August 2, 2025
Gainesboro Fire Hall, Winchester, VA
Commander Cole called the meeting to order at 8:00 and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Deputy Commander Clements led the invocation.
National Adjutant Erick Shaw called the roll and reported as present the following members of the Board of Directors:
David Cole, National Commander
Richard Clements, National Deputy Commander
Erick Shaw, National Adjutant
John Defilippi, Inspector General
Bette Shepherd, National Paymaster
Sharon Myers, Executive Secretary
Douglas Walter, Allegheny Region Commander
Tom Wareham, Carolina Region Commander
Joe Heatwole, Central Virginia Region Commander
David Booz, Chesapeake Region Commander
Joseph Plakis III, Middle Atlantic Region Commander
Eric Schuessler, Midwest Region Commander
Lou Ruggiero, New England Region Commander
Mark Killeen, Northeast Region Commander
Edward Walters, Northwest Region Commander
Walter Zdon, Jr., Potomac Region Commander
E.R. Mike Davenport, Tidewater Region Commander
Absent were Past Commander Chuck Kindle, Deep South Region Commander Lani Harrison, and Western Region Commander John Mark.
The minutes of the May BOD meeting were approved after motion by Mike Davenport. The minutes of the May Membership meeting were approved after motion by Eric Schuessler. Joe Plakis commented on the lack of open forum during the membership meeting and it will be added to future agendas.
The minutes of the June Zoom meeting were approved after motion by Lou Ruggiero.
Dave Cole then turned over the meeting to Paymaster Shepherd. Bette had Erin, our accountant from SEK, on video call and Erin stated that the audit was complete. A final review would be done before the reports were generated.
Bette then presented her report. As of today, we have 9 months of unrestricted cash. To compare, this pumpouts in May due to the flood and electricity is higher than expected. The Paymaster’s Report was approved after motion by Mike Davenport.
Commander’s Comments
Dave Cole commended the region commanders for how well they are handling the extremely hot weather we have had this summer, and asked them to continue erring on the side of caution.
With Scott Harris’ passing, Dave is requesting that all board members wear a black armband in his memory at the fall national. Scott and his family have incurred incredible medical debt. Several regions, the Veteran’s Committee, and numerous individual members have made donations to help offset these expenses. Anyone wishing to donate, please work through Tim Scanlan.
Dave turned the floor over to Gary Crawford, who presented a proposal for a revolving trophy in Scott’s honor. As there is currently no existing trophy, it is recommended the Scott Harris Trophy be awarded to the individual shooting the highest smoothbore aggregate score, regardless of classification. Design would be presented for approval in January, with the inaugural award in May. Motion to permit Gary to move forward with design made by Mike Davenport and approved.
Dave reminded the region commander that he had requested they supply a copy of their region’s bylaws to the Executive Secretary and while many of you have, some of you haven’t.
Our social media presence is improving. While many individuals and groups are sharing posts and following pages, the 48th Virginia has just surpassed 60,000 followers.
Sometime during the Veteran’s Skirmish, it was discovered that a person or persons unknown did some damage to the west side of the Stat House. These individuals were taking rocks from the creek and throwing them at the side of the building close to the restroom. There is damage to the siding, but fortunately no panels were broken. If the identities of the person or persons are discovered, they or their parents will be held responsible.
Membership renewals for 2026 are coming soon. With the continuing issues of the USPS, it is recommended that teams mail their renewal packets via a manner that gives them a tracking number and priority service.
We have been receiving more and more requests to have the names of former members who have passed read during Opening Ceremonies at nationals. We are asking to try and keep it to current members, but will make exceptions on a case by case basis. In addition, Sherry is asking that the teams and region please forward names needing to be read. There are names being
missed and it is due to the fact that the Executive Secretary was never notified that someone had passed.
Dave moved on to the subject of uniforms. There is a slacking off of appearances, particularly when it comes to footwear. He is asking the region commanders to reiterate to their teams to try for a uniform appearance to pass the ‘from the safety line’ muster test.
Deputy Commander
Rick Clements opened his remarks by formally recognizing the host staff of the 151st for going above and beyond during the severe flood event. He also thanked the many volunteers for the range preparations and clean up.
Rick addressed a letter that was received from a member who raised the issue of failures during the flood. Acknowledging that some things could have been done better, the letter didn’t address the multiple warnings that were given to the people in the lower campsites nor the fact that an earthen dam upstream let go that raised the water level dramatically in a very short period of time.
Adjutant
Erick Shaw stated that as part of host staff he worked ordnance at this past national. With this perspective, he noticed that experienced members were quick to criticize new members. If there is a safety issue, it needs to be corrected quickly, but those of us who have been shooting for a while to be a bit more kind when addressing these issues.
Erick then asked the board why are we making money off of the sutlers. Many of the new shooters we are bringing in do not have a background in black powder or Civil War arms, and we depend on the sutlers to equip those new members coming in. He believes what it costs for the sutlers to operate, that is what we should be charging them.
An ad hoc committee consisting of Erick Shaw, Joe Plakis, Chris DeFrancisci, Paul Stoneburner, and Mike Davenport will meet and come back in January with a proposal.
Inspector General
John Defilippi opened his report by thanking the membership. 265 firearms were inspected and only 3 failed for the entire weekend of the national, for just over a 1% failure rate.
John wanted to communicate that the Pedersoli single shot pistol kits must have their stocks finished appropriate to what they are supposed to be. The grips cannot be left unfinished or rough as that constitutes a competitive advantage. At this time these kit pistols do not require Small Arms Committee approval, but if these issues are not resolved that will change. The same goes for revolvers. Oversize, rough, or checkered grips are unacceptable.
Executive Secretary
Sherry Myers opened by submitting the proposed 2026 Fort Shenandoah schedule with the addition of the Veteran’s Skirmish. After motion by Joe Plakis the schedule was approved as follows:
January 16-18, 2026
January 31, 2026
March 27-29, 2026
April 10-12, 2026
April 17-19, 2026
April 25, 2026
May 1-3, 2026
May 13-17, 2026
June 5-7, 2026
June 20, 2026
June 26-28, 2026
July 10-12, 2026
July 17-19, 2026
August 1, 2026
August 7-9, 2026
August 13-15, 2026
August 21-23, 2026
Snowball Skirmish
Winter Board Mee�ng
Early Bird Skirmish
Chesapeake Regional
Spring Potomac
CV Region Recruit Skirmish
CV Regional
153rd Na�onal
Cockade Rifles
Work Skirmish
Mason/Dixon
McNeill’s Rangers
Veteran’s Skirmish
Summer Board Mee�ng
Allegheny Regional
Wainwright Ar�llery Skirmish
Gator Skirmish
September 11-13, 2026 Fall Potomac
September 19, 2026 PT Region Recruit Skirmish
Sept. 30-Oct. 4, 2026 154th Na�onal
October 23-25, 2026 Halloween Skirmish
There were 25 member units who registered teams for the 151st Na�onal, but scratched due to the flood and long distance travel. Sherry was contacted by not only several of these teams, but a region commander reques�ng that they be given par�cipa�on credit due to the special circumstances. Mo�on to grant 151st Na�onal par�cipa�on credit to these member units made by Joe Plakis and carried.
Roger Hipple of the 3rd U.S. proposed a 50 year patch that could be worn signifying their halfcentury status. The Awards Commitee already awards a patch and pin with each 50 Year medal. Mo�on to table to January and defer to the Veteran’s Commitee made by Mike Davenport and carried.
Lou Ruggiero moved to add a New England skirmish to be held September 13-14 to the 2025 schedule. Mo�on approved. 2026
Eric Schuessler moved to allow the Execu�ve Secretary to take monies from the dona�on boxes set out at the Ruritan building and donate those proceeds to Scot Harris’ family. Mo�on carried.
Bivouac
Mo�on to permit Savannah River Squadron to move from Area 5, Site 43 to Area 7, Site 13 was made by Lou Ruggiero and carried.
Mo�on to permit the 30th VA Sharpshooters to expand into Area 6, Site 9 was made by Doug Walter and approved.
Mo�on to permit Rowan Ar�llery to relocate from Area 5, Site 48 to Area 3, Site 55 was made by Mike Davenport and carried.
Mo�on to permit the 9th NY Cavalry and the 20th GA to evenly split Site 48 in Area 5 made by Mark Killeen and approved.
Endowment
Chris DeFrancisci reported that his and Dave Cole’s terms are up at the end of this year. As Commander, Dave will move into an ex officio role on the commitee, so we will need to fill two seats in January. Chris is reques�ng that when we solicit dona�ons that we promote the Endowment.
Mat Galloway asked about a clause in the Endowment Charter that men�ons we can only earn interest on the Endowment, not capital gains or dividends. Chris informed him that it can be done, we just need to inform our donors.
Finance Commitee
Rick Clements presented the history of the crea�on of the Finance Commitee and the role it is to play. The proposed Charter spells out what the Commitee does and how, and its responsibili�es to the board to guide the Associa�on’s money management. The Paymaster shall be a steady member of the Commitee, which will include a Chair and Vice Chair, both with specific responsibili�es.
The Charter spells out specific func�ons, including frequency and number of mee�ngs and what they will be responsible for doing. A�er discussion to do with defining a quorum specifically for the Commitee, Doug Walter moved to approve the Finance Commitee Charter with the amendment sta�ng that a quorum shall consist of all commitee members, and the mo�on carried.
Rick then reviewed the Financial Realignment Plan. Mo�on to approve as presented made by Erick Shaw and approved.
Discussion commenced on Third Party Restricted funds. Dave Cole instructed Erick Shaw to contact the administrators of these funds and ask them how they would like the money to be used.
IT Report on Inac�ve Teams
Joe Plakis, while researching an unrelated subject, discovered that inac�ve teams were s�ll being counted in the total numbers used for the team reclassifica�ons that take place a�er each na�onal skirmish. As we do not count inac�ve members when reclassifying individuals, it was agreed we should do the same thing for team compe��on. Mo�on to remove these inac�ve teams was made by Joe Plakis and carried.
Na�onal Medal Realignment
Chair of the Ad Hoc Medal Realignment Commitee, Joe Plakis, presented his report showing 5 medal adjustment op�ons, including the Olympic Op�on (3 places per regardless of entry numbers). A�er much discussion it was agreed that the region commanders need to speak with their teams. Erick Shaw moved to table to January 2026 and the mo�on was approved.
The Execu�ve Secretary is to communicate to Chuck Kindle that he order a quan�ty of medals based on current award numbers. Ed Walters stated that Chuck and Kathy Kindle are looking for someone to take over sor�ng and inventorying the na�onal medals.
Recessed for lunch at 11:30.
Convened in Execu�ve Session at 12:30.
Reconvened in Open Session at 2:05.
Mo�on to approve ac�ons taken during Execu�ve Session including accep�ng the resigna�on of the Finance Commitee Chair was made by Eric Schuessler and carried.
Playground
Anna Schneeman is seeking approval to redesign parts of the playground and install a piece of new equipment that is county compliant and safe. New ma�ng surrounding the equipment will be water tolerant and not wash away. As she has already secured enough funding to do the job, mo�on to permit her to move forward was made by Mike Davenport and carried.
Recrui�ng
In Chris Krecidlo’s report he included a proposed updated Liability Waiver form for all nonmember skirmish par�cipants to sign. Mo�on to permit its use made by Lou Ruggiero and carried.
Revolver
Chris DeFrancisci presented a proposal to move Na�onal Revolver Team compe��on distances from 25 yards to 12.5 yards and subs�tute wood blocks for 6” �les. Individual compe��on will s�ll be held at the established 25 and 50 yards.
Rules
Amendment of Rule 10.18.c
Current Rules:
c. Safety officers shall be appointed as follows:
1. Safety officers for Relay 1 matches shall be appointed from Relay 2 crews.
2. Safety officers for Relay 2 matches shall be appointed from Relay 1 crews.
3. Safety officers for Relay 3 matches shall be volunteers from previous relays.
4. Only gunners or experienced cannoneers shall be appointed safety officers.
Proposed Rules:
c. Safety Officers shall be appointed as follows:
1. If two relays are on a posi�on,
a. The Safety Officer for Relay 1 shall be appointed from the Relay 2 crew.
b. The Safety Officer for Relay 2 shall be appointed from the Relay 1 crew.
2. If three relays are on a posi�on,
a. The Safety Officer for Relay 1 shall be appointed from the Relay 3 crew.
b. The Safety Officer for Relay 2 shall be appointed from the Relay 1 crew.
c. The Safety Officer for Relay 3 shall be appointed from the Relay 2 crew.
3. Only gunners or experienced cannoneers shall be appointed as safety officers.
Mo�on to approve as presented made by Doug Walter and carried.
Mo�on to implement this rule beginning with the 152nd Na�onal was made by Doug Walter and carried.
Addi�on to Rule 37.3
Proposed rule to be added:
1. At Na�onal Skirmishes, all members atending are required to register showing proof of membership with the host staff assigned to the Registra�on Building upon entry to Fort Shenandoah. Members arriving before the Registra�on office opens are required to register once the host staff begins opera�ons.
If this rule is approved, it will become 37.3.1 and the subsequent numbers reset.
Mo�on to approve as presented made by Joe Plakis and carried.
Mo�on to implement this rule beginning with the 152nd Na�onal was made by Lou Ruggiero and carried.
Amendment to Rule 7A.9
Current command in Paragraph 8: “CEASE FIRE! CEASE FIRE! LOAD AND COME TO THE READY.” (the announcer shall �me 2 minutes to load and cap. While this �me is elapsing, the announcer shall read:)
Proposed command in Paragraph 8: “CEASE FIRE! CEASE FIRE! LOAD AND COME TO THE READY. YOU HAVE 30 SECONDS.” (the Announcer and/or spoters shall visually inspect the line.)
Mo�on to approve the change made by Lou Ruggiero and carried.
Mo�on to implement beginning at the 152nd Na�onal made by Mark Killeen and carried.
Mo�on to approve the changes was made by Eric Schuessler and carried with two no votes. Mo�on to implement this rule beginning with the 152nd Na�onal made by Mark Killeen and carried.
Tabled Item from May 2025
There is a pending mo�on made by Mike Davenport (TW) to allocate the funds taken in from the individual matches at the 151st to the Range Improvement Fund. An image of the original mo�on form was emailed to the region commanders for them to take back to their teams for discussion.
Mo�on as writen May 15, 2025:
“As a Board – we will allocate the funds paid for Individual matches to the Range Improvement Fund.”
Mike Davenport amended the above mo�on to allocate the funds from the 151st Na�onal Individual Match entries to the Opera�ons and Maintenance Fund and the mo�on was approved.
Addi�ons to the Bylaws Sec�on 6
Sec�on 11 (new)
When a Region’s numbers fall to five (5) member organiza�ons, the Region commander shall be required to provide regular updates to the Board. This update shall include what efforts the region is making to recruit new member organiza�ons and what assistance they may require from the na�onal organiza�on.
Mo�on to amend the number of members teams from 5 to 4 to trigger board ac�on failed.
Mo�on to accept the proposed bylaw as writen was made by Doug Walter and carried. It will go to the member teams for a final vote to approve in October.
Sec�on 12 (new)
The Board of Directors shall have the authority to dissolve a region if that Region membership falls below four (4) member organiza�ons.
The Board may exercise discre�on and allow a one (1) year grace period for that Region to recruit new member organiza�ons to fill its ranks.
The remaining member organiza�ons of the dissolved region shall have a period of ninety (90) days a�er no�fica�on to work with the other N-SSA Regions to determine to which exis�ng region the remaining member organiza�ons shall transfer. If a member organiza�on has not no�fied the Board of which region they will be moving to at the end of the alloted ninety (90) day period, the Board shall assign them to a new Region with the consent of that member organiza�on.
Mo�on to accept the proposed bylaw as presented and send it to a membership vote in October made by Mike Davenport and carried.
Bylaws amendment tabled from May 2025
This was the proposed amendment to Ar�cle IV, Sec�on 4 that was tabled by the membership in May:
“The Board of Directors shall approve annual budgets. Over-budget item expenditures shall require approval by the Board or the Membership as indicated:
1. Line item expenditures exceeding 1.5% but less than 3% of the total budget shall require approval by the Board of Directors.
2. Line item expenditures exceeding 3% of the total budget shall require approval by the Membership.
The Board shall cause an annual review or audit of Association financial records to be conducted.”
Amended proposal:
“The Board of Directors shall approve annual budgets. Over-budget item expenditures shall require approval by the Board or the Membership as indicated:
1. Over-budget item expenditures exceeding $500 but less than $3000 shall require approval by the Board of Directors.
2. Over-budget item expenditures exceeding $3000 shall require approval by the Membership.
The Board shall cause an annual review or audit of Associa�on financial records to be conducted.”
Mo�on to approve the amended proposal as presented and send it to a membership vote in October was made by Mike Davenport and carried.
Amendment of Policy 2012.3
Current policy:
“
Permission for businesses and other organiza�ons to use the N-SSA’s corporate and sesquicentennial logos may be granted only by the Board of Directors or its appointed designee.”
Proposed policy:
“Permission for member units, regions, staff officers, and commitee chairs to use the NSSA’s corporate and sesquicentennial logos may be granted a�er a form designated for that purpose has been submited and reviewed. Permission for businesses and other organiza�ons to use the N-SSA’s corporate and sesquicentennial logos may be granted only by the Board of Directors or its appointed designee.
Mo�on to approve the proposed policy amendment made by Doug Walter and carried.
Program
With the recent passing of Scot Harris, Program Officer George McDowell is recommending that Tim Scanlan direct the 156th Na�onal. He is also recommending that Chris DeFrancisci of the Washington Blue Rifles direct the 157th, and Doug Walter of the 1st PA Rifles (Bucktails) direct the 158th.
Mo�on to approve all three recommenda�ons was made by Walter Zdon and carried.
Skirmish Line
Mike Davenport that in January we allocated funds to the Skirmish Line Editor to pay s�pends to those who contribute ar�cles, but exempted the membership. As the members are the ones with the knowledge, he believes they should be eligible for these s�pends also. Mike Davenport made the mo�on to allow members to also be eligible for Skirmish Line ar�cle s�pends, and the mo�on carried.
Around the Table
Bete Shepherd – Fair Share taxes will begin going out next week.
Mike Davenport – Good mee�ng.
Joe Heatwole – The CV Region donated $3000 to the Harris family.
Tom Wareham – Thanks to everyone for a great mee�ng.
Joe Plakis – Any region with a Youth Program, if you purchase the plaster of Paris he can mold targets.
Doug Walter – Next weekend is the Allegheny Regional and the weather is going to be good.
Walt Zdon – Applica�ons for the Fall Potomac will be going out.
Mo�on to adjourn made at 4:52 by Walter Zdon and carried.
North-South Skirmish Association, Inc.
Board of Directors Meeting
Monday, September 15, 2025
Via Zoom
Commander Cole called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m.
National Adjutant Erick Shaw called the roll and reported as present the following members of the Board of Directors:
David Cole, National Commander
Richard Clements, National Deputy Commander
Erick Shaw, National Adjutant
John Defilippi, Inspector General
Bette Shepherd, National Paymaster
Sharon Myers, Executive Secretary
Douglas Walter, Allegheny Region Commander
Tom Wareham, Carolina Region Commander
David Booz, Chesapeake Region Commander
Lanier Harrison, Deep South Region Commander
Joseph Plakis III, Middle Atlantic Region Commander
Lou Ruggiero, New England Region Commander
Mark Killeen, Northeast Region Commander
Edward Walters, Northwest Region Commander
Walter Zdon, Jr., Potomac Region Commander
John Mark, Western Region Commander
Absent were Past Commander Chuck Kindle, Central Virginia Region Commander Joe Heatwole, Midwest Region Commander Eric Schuessler, and Tidewater Region Commander Mike Davenport.
Also in attendance were Acting Finance Committee Chair Lance Walter and Endowment Committee Chair Chris DeFrancisci.
Commander’s Comments
Back in August we discussed investment plans and the potential hiring of an investment advisor. This is the goal of the meeting this evening.
Lance Walter presented the matrix of proposed investment advisors with the Finance Committee recommendation of Diamond Wealth Advisors.
Doug Walter moved to engage Diamond Wealth Advisors based on the Finance Committee recommendation. Motion carried with 1 no vote.
The Financial Realignment and Investment Plan and the Reserves Policy Statement were approved as presented with quarterly reviews after motion by John Mark.
The Investment Policy Statement was approved as presented after motion by Dave Booz.
Commander Cole stated that all of these actions will be reported to the membership at the October meeting. It was remarked that Diamond Wealth should be present at the January 2026 Board meeting, and they will be issued an invitation.
Rick Clements will schedule a meeting with Diamond Wealth to get started.
Dave Booz thanked everyone for the hard work in putting this all together.
Meeting adjourned at 8:04 p.m. after motion by Doug Walter.
Rambling around Tidewater…..
As we pause to reflect on these past years skirmishing season, I think back to all the fun, challenges, loss and dreams we had this past season. Here in Tidewater, we started off the year with the Annual Dismal Swamp Rangers shoot in March. This year we only saw three of the four seasons for the weekend! A new to the area event- a 3-gun competition was well received! A couple of weeks later, Southampton Grays held their event- perfect weather- lots of fun and competition! Tuckers Naval Brigade never disappoints with a great event, Tomlins Chicken and BBQ to top off a Saturday filled with Shooting fun! Hanover Grays rose to the occasion and hosted the Spring regional- Those boys did a fantastic job, and everyone had a quality time. The Spring National was a bit wet- but we survived with a minimum of disruption. These 100-year floods seem to be happening on a more regular basis!
The summer is a bit slow in Tidewater- 95-degree days and 90% humidity make it a bit hard to compete locally, but our teams did trek to the fort and participate in the events there. Those who were veterans in the N-SSA made that weekend – Feral the last one! The Fall Regional started the season back again for Tidewater- DSR was the host, and teams were getting prepared for the Fall National. The region held a meeting, and your elected leaders for the next 2 years are – Michael Stoneburner- Inspector, Linwood McMahon- Deputy Commander, and myself- Mike Davenport- Region Commander. I asked Judy Stoneburner to accept the Adjutant/Paymaster position, and she graciously did. It is a pleasure representing the region for another term. The Fall National was guided by our very own Jaime Conner and her able assistant Cindy Pierce. They guided the N-SSA to another wonderful set of events. We did not elect to hold a “Cancer Shoot” this year- more to come on that subject at the January meeting. Nansemond finished up the year with the “Last Chance” shoot. These guys held a great event, wonderful dinner and excellent weather- we even had some teams from outside the region attend and everyone had a great time!
As the season has finished up, and we look toward 2026- I hope and pray that everyone has a great holiday season. Remember to help and support those in our ranks who are facing sickness, health or other challenges. We are one family! See you on the Skirmish Line in 2026
North-South Skirmish Association,
152nd Nationals Team Results
North-South Skirmish Association, Inc. 150th National Skirmish, Oct 2-6,
152nd Nationals Team Results
North-South Skirmish
Skirmish Association, Inc.
Spencer - 1 Place Paid
152nd Nationals Team Results
152nd Nationals Team Results
152nd Nationals Team
152nd Nationals Team Results
North-South Skirmish Association, Inc. 150th National Skirmish, Oct 2-6, 2024 SS Pistol Company Match Results - Final Class C - 1 Place
152nd Nationals Individual Results
152nd Nationals Individual Results
152nd Nationals Individual Results
152nd Nationals Individual Results
152nd Nationals Individual Results
152nd Nationals Individual Results
150th Nationals Individual
152nd Nationals Individual Results
152nd Nationals Individual Results
152nd Nationals Individual Results
152nd Nationals Individual Results
152nd Nationals Team Results
152nd Nationals Team Results
6 HARDAWAY’S ALA BTTY NO. 1 #1
7 12TH REGT US REGULAR INF #1
8 7TH MICHIGAN VOL INF #1
9 BERDAN’S 1ST US SS #1
1ST REGT ILL VOL LT ARTY NO. 1 #1
15 1ST REGT ILL VOL LT ARTY NO. 2 #2
17 30TH VA SS BTTN NO. 2 #2
32 2ND NJ CAVALRY NO. 1 #1
33 1ST VIRGINIA VOLS (LARS) #1
34 WHITE’S CO 35TH VA CAV #1
35 DULANY TROOP 6TH VA CAVALRY
36 30TH VA SS BTTN NO. 1 #1
37 R. PRESTON CHEW’S BTTY #1
A Skirmisher’s Gift of Life………10 years later
By Kent Snyder, 110th OVI
If you have been skirmishing more than 10 years, you may possibly remember an article from the Winter 2016 publication of the Skirmish Line (Volume 62, Issue 1) about an amazing friendship. On the very back pages was an article about Teddy Parker and Kent Snyder. Back in November of 2015, I had the honor of donating one of my kidneys to my life long friend and 110th teammate Teddy who was in desperate need of a transplant. It was quite the endeavor for both of us back then, but it was the best thing that I had ever done in my life. I realized at the time that this was the reason why the good Lord put me on this earth; to do this one gesture and keep my buddy around a bit longer. And, I will be honest, I would do it all over again. Several times in the past 10 years I have had fellow skirmishes come up to me and thank me or applaud me for that gesture, and ask me how my friend was fairing. Some of the words spoken in those conversations actually made my eyes well up. I truly appreciate the kind words and support that have been sent my way.
So, I want to give my Skirmish friends an update as to how things are going with Mr. Parker and me after all these years. I can sum our progress since the transplant surgery in one word: Fantastic. Neither of us have had any complications from the transplant. Teddy has been able to live a normal life again. And for myself, I have never felt better. Looks like the both of us will be sticking around for some time now, and will be able to attend many, many more skirmishes in the coming years.
The accompanying photo was taken at the Ohio monument at the 3rd Winchester Battlefield Park while we were in Virginia for the fall 2025 Nationals. As you can see, at 66 years of age each, we’re both alive and kicking. Maybe not as high as we used to, but we are still going strong. Again, I’d like to thank my fellow skirmishes for all the well wishes over the past 10years. Hopefully Teddy and I will still be on the line in another 10 years.
Pictured here
Kent Snyder - Left
Teddy Parker - Right
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15th Regiment New Jersey Volunteer Infantry, Co Awith the Army of the Tennessee Memorial Trophy for 1st Place A-3 Musket Team
2nd Maryland Cavalry, Co A - with the A-2 Musket Team Trophy for 1st Place A-2 Musket Team
110th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Co A - with the William Frances Keys Trophy for 1st Place A Musket Team; and the Jack Rawls Memorial Trophy for 1st place Musket-Carbine Team Aggregate McGregor’s 2nd Battery, Co B - 1st Place B-2 Musket Team
8th Regiment Virginia Volunteer Infantry, Co B - with the Franklin O Hayes Memorial Trophy for 1st Place B-1 Musket Team
- 1st Place A-2 Revolver
- 1st Place B Revolver
- 1st Place A-3 Revolver
- 1st Place C Revolver
- 1st Place Revolver Team - with the first place revolver team trophy
9th Virginia Cavalry, CSA - with the Alan Bilby Memorial Trophy for 1st Place A Carbine Team
Co. B 1st Pennsylvania Cavalry, Co A - 1st Place A-3 Carbine Team
Chartiers Valley Guawrd, Co A - 1st Place A-2 Carbine Team
8th Regiment Virginia Volunteer Infantry, Co B - 1st Place B-1 Carbine Team
2nd New Jersey Cavalry, Co B - 1st Place B-2 Carbine Team
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Iredell Blues, Co B - 1st Place, Class B Revolver Team Washington Blue Rifles, Co B - 1st Place, Class C Revolver Team
29th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, Co A - 1st Place, Class A-2 Revolver Team
5th Virginia Volunteer Infantry, Co A - 1st Place, Class A-3 Revolver Team
21st Virginia Infantry, Maryland Guard, Co A - with the 1st Place Class A-1 Revolver Team Trophy
George McDowell (Left), 12th Pennsylvania Infantry - is presented with the Skirmish Directors Star for the 151st National Skirmish.
Nathaniel Lakatos is presented with the 1st Place Young Skirmisher Award by the NRA.
B Pierce is presented with the 2nd Place Young Skirmisher Award by the NRA.
Tom Magno is presented with the 1st Place Senior Skirmisher Award by the NRA.
Charlie DeCourcy is presented with the 2nd Place Senior Skirmisher Award by the NRA.
Friday’s workshop “take-away” was a reproduction dance card and journal. Peggy Edwards-Shaw provided kits and instructions
The Costume Committee displayed antique undersleeves, for education and study. Our own handmade undersleeves will be the Special Project for the May 2026 Nationals.
Bumford, 149th Pennsylvania
- with the Walter T Felter Memorial Trophy for 2nd Place Grand Aggregate & the Wade O Huffman Memorial Trophy for highest 5-gun Aggregate & the Larry Brockmiller Memorial Trophy for highest 7-gun Aggregate
Adam
Volunteer Infantry
Edward Schneeman, 8th Regiment Virginia Volunteer Infantry - with the Tom Blum Memorial Trophy for highest Revolver Aggregate
Derek Snook, 21st Virginia Infantry, Maryland Guard - with the Patrick E Felker Memorial Trophy for highest Musket Aggregate(left), the Ben Betterley Memorial Trophy for highest 50-yard Musket Score (center), and the Ernest W Peterkin N-SSA Grand Aggregate Trophy for 1st Place Grand Aggregate (right).
Kreig O’Bryant, Southampton Greys - with the Bruce C Warburton Memorial Trophy for highest Carbine Aggregate & the Albert N Hardin Jr Memorial Trophy for highest Musket/Carbine Aggregate
Dennis Heuer - with the Brian Haack Memorial Trophy for highest Smoothbore Aggregate
Nelda has become quite the seamstress, sewing and starching underpinnings, and creating a seasonal brown cotton print dress with bishop sleeves, ruffled cuffs, and a simple round bodice. Nelda will be warm, wearing her brown wool paletot coat with black lace trim, and a quilted wool hood. This unusual hood pattern is sourced from Kay Fig Patterns, and was recreated from Der Bazar, La Mode
Beth Hines - The Susan Brisban Award, for her handmade collars and cuffs, Seamstress-Beth Hines. Beth displays beautiful whitework on linen, with pulled and drawn threads and rolled hems.
Elizabeth Weaver (Left) - 1st Place, Children’s Best Visual. Elizabeth is wearing a rural farm dress, in a cotton print calico fabric. Her accessories are a sun bonnet, apron and sturdy boots for farm chores.
Edward Weaver (Right) - 2nd Place, Children’s Best Visual. Edward is quite proud to wear the same uniform as his father: a gray sack coat and trousers, leather cap pouch, canteen, CSA belt buckle, leather boots and wool kepi.
Nelda Platz- 1st Place Women’s Semi-Formal (Regular Competition), and Delaney Award, Seamstress- Nelda Platz.
- 1st Place A-2 Revolver
- 1st Place B Revolver
- 1st Place A-3 Revolver
- 1st Place C Revolver
- 1st Place Revolver Team - with the first place revolver team trophy
Theodore Kominek, Carregin McNamara,Emmalee Kerr, Hattie Bethke- 1st Place Junior BB Gun Team
Lily Jenkins [Not Pictured: Abel Wenke, Joseph Becker, Duncan Keener] - 1st Place Senior BB Gun Team
Abel Wenke, McGregor’s 2nd Battery - 1st Place Senior Pellet Rifle Individuals
Lily Jenkins, Mosby’s Rangers (L) and Hattie Bethke, 3rd Maryland Artillery (R) with the Clarence Holloway Jr Tenderfoot Trophy for 1st Place Junior and Senior Youths.
- 1st Place B Breech-loader/Carbine II
- 1st Place A-3 Breech-loader/Carbine II
- 1st Place Single-Shot Breech-loader
with the Private’s Trophy for highest placing repeater team
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9th Virginia Cavalry, CSA, Co A - with the Private’s Trophy for 1st Place Repeater Team
Lancaster Fencibles, Co A - 1st Place, Class A-3 Breechloader Team
Cockade Rifles, Co A - 1st Place, Class A-2 Breechloader Team
2nd New Jersey Cavalry, Co B - 1st Place, Class B Breechloader Team
Nansemond Guards, Co A - 1st Place, Class A Single-Shot Pistol Team
8th Regiment Virginia Volunteer Infantry, Co C - 1st Place Class C Single-Shot Pistol Team
Nansemond Guards, Co B - 1st Place, Class B Single-Shot Pistol Team
110th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Co A - 1st Place, Single-Shot Breechloader Team
1st Regiment Illinois Volunteer Light Artillery, Co A1st Place Spencer Team Skirmish Line Fall 2025
- 1st Place A-2 Smoothbore
- 1st Place B Smoothbore
- 1st Place A-3 Smoothbore
- 1st Place C Smoothbore
1st Maryland Cavalry, CSA (Tim) - 1st Place, Class D (Rifled Howitzer) Artillery Crew
Co. G 23rd North Carolina State Troops (Rifled) - with the Russell L Yeagy Memorial Trophy for highest scoring Rifled Crew
Co. G 23rd North Carolina State Troops - with the Larry Beyer Memorial Artillery Trophy for the highest scoring Spring/Fall Artillery Crew.
Nansemond Guards, Co B - 1st Place, Class B Smoothbore Team
Co C, 2nd US Sharpshooters, Co C - 1st Place, Class C Smoothbore Team
110th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Co A - with the Men of the West Trophy for 1st Place A-1 Smoothbore Team
49th Virginia Infantry, CSA, Co A - 1st Place, Class A-3 Smoothbore Team
12th Regiment U.S Regular Infantry Co B - 1st Place, Class A-2 Smoothbore Team
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Steven J. Deneau, 19th Michigan Infantry - 50 Year Membership Award
Allen Landers, 17th Virginia Infantry - 50 Year Membership Award
Christopher Reisch, 17th Virginia Infantryaccepts for Robert Reisch (posthumous) - 50 Year Membership Award
Tom Jasper, 6th Kentucky - 50 Year Membership Award
Allan F. Cockey - 50 Yeam Membership Award
Not Pictured: Stephen D. Doyle
Skirmish Line Fall 2025
- 1st place B-2 Musket
- 1st Place A-2 Musket Team
with the Stonewall Jackson Memorial Trophy for highest placing C Musket Team
- 1st Place class A-3 Musket - with the Army of the Tennessee Memorial Trophy.
- with the Ben T Cooke, Sr Memorial Trophy, for highest scoring Smoothbore Crew.
- 1st Place B Musket - with the Franklin O Hayes Memorial Trophy
- 1st Place Smoothbore Pistol Demo Team
Gary Bowling, Nansemond Guards - 1st Place NRA National Championship - Revolver Aggregate
Derek Snook, 21st Virginia Infantry, Maryland Guard - 1st Place NRA National ChampionshipMusket Aggregate
Dennis Heuer - 1st Place NRA National Championship - Smoothbore Aggregate
Kreig O’Bryant, Southampton Greys - 1st Place NRA National Championship - Carbine Aggregate
Adam Bumford, 149th Pennsylvania Infantry1st Place NRA National Championship - NRA Aggregate
Joe Bilby
Robert (Bob) Brown
TAPS
Fall 2025
69th NY State Volunteers
Author and Historian
1st Regt. IL Light Artillery
Ron Collins 1st CT Volunteers
Ronnie Fredericksen Richmond Volunteer Militia
Gilbert Garcia Dismal Swamp Rangers
Frank Grunwald 17th PA Volunteer Cavalry
Catherine Jones Lucas’ Battalion, 15th SC
Webster Jones Lucas’ Battalion, 15th SC
Robert Kuehne
44th NY Volunteer Infantry
Tom McHugh Forney’s Battalion, USMC
Ronald McIntyre
1st US Artillery
Kenneth Moore 1st Florida Cavalry
Sterling (Red) Neblett, Jr. Hanover Grays
Cliff Shipe 1st PA Rifles (Bucktails)
Tom Wines McGregor’s 2nd Battery
David Yarbrough
34th Battalion VA Cavalry
Scott Harriss First Florida Cavalry
“Unable are the loved to die. For love is immortality.” - Emily Dickinson
The Magazine of the North-South Skirmish Association, Inc.
